Who painted Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene?

Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene was painted by Wilhelm Marstrand in 1844.

Where can I see Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene?

Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene?

Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene is associated with Realism.

Artwork

Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene

Wilhelm Marstrand , 1844

Fra Ludvig Holbergs "Erasmus Montanus", III akt, 3. scene is an oil painting by the Realist artist Wilhelm Marstrand. It dates from 1844 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Wilhelm Marstrand's 1844 oil painting depicts a scene from Ludvig Holberg's 1731 comedy *Erasmus Montanus*, specifically III, scene 3. Executed in the Realist style, the work is part of the collection at Statens Museum for Kunst.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a pivotal moment from Holberg's play, capturing the interactions of multiple characters within a cluttered, antiquely furnished room. Their old-fashioned attire reflects the play's original 17th-century setting.

Technique & Style

Marstrand employs dramatic chiaroscuro, leveraging strong light and dark contrasts to create depth and visual tension in the lively indoor scene, characteristic of the Realist movement's emphasis on detailed, realistic representation.

History & Provenance

Created in 1844 by Wilhelm Marstrand, a key figure in Denmark's Golden Age of Painting, the work remains in the permanent collection of Statens Museum for Kunst.

Context

The painting reflects Marstrand's dual role as painter and illustrator, as well as the broader cultural revival of Denmark's Golden Age, which saw a renewed interest in national literature and history, such as Holberg's works.

Legacy

As part of Marstrand's oeuvre, the painting contributes to the artistic heritage of Denmark's Golden Age, offering a visual interpretation of Holberg's influential comedic work.

Artist & collection

Artist

Wilhelm Marstrand

Nicolai Wilhelm Marstrand (24 December 1810 – 25 March 1873), painter and illustrator, was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, to Nicolai Jacob Marstrand, instrument maker and inventor, and Petra Othilia Smith.