Artwork
En jysk bonde læser i Bibelen
En jysk bonde læser i Bibelen is an oil painting by the Realist artist Hans Smidth. It dates from 1870 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.
About this work
Overview
En jysk bonde læser i Bibelen (1870) is a painting by Danish artist Hans Smidth, capturing a quiet, everyday moment of a Jutland farmer engaged in reading the Bible.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a humble farmer, is portrayed in a contemplative state, emphasizing the significance of religious text in rural life. The scene conveys a sense of intimacy and solemnity.
Technique & Style
Smidth employs a Realist style, characterized by the use of chiaroscuro, where strong contrasts between light and dark (notably on the farmer's face) add depth and emotional resonance. The rough textures of the farmer's attire and the simple, dimly lit setting further reinforce the realistic depiction of everyday life.
History & Provenance
Created in 1870 by Hans Smidth (1839-1917), the painting is now part of the collection at Statens Museum for Kunst.
Context
The work reflects Smidth's focus on Jutland's rural population and their daily lives, contributing to the broader Realist movement's emphasis on ordinary subjects.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Ludvig Smidth (2 October 1839, Nakskov – 5 May 1917, Frederiksberg) was a Danish painter. He is remembered above all for his paintings of Jutland and its local inhabitants.
