Artwork
Læsende ung pige
Læsende ung pige is an oil painting by Wilhelm Marstrand. It dates from 1849 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1849, *Læsende ung pige* is an oil painting by Danish artist Wilhelm Marstrand, a prominent figure of the nation’s Golden Age of painting. The work is part of the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst in Copenhagen and exemplifies Marstrand’s interest in everyday domestic scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The canvas portrays a young woman seated in a modest wooden chair, absorbed in a book. Her dark hair is gathered in a bun, and she wears a simple dress with a lace‑trimmed collar. The composition conveys a moment of quiet concentration, inviting viewers to consider the intimacy of personal study.
Technique & Style
Marstrand employs a restrained palette and careful modelling of light to render the figure against a pale wall. Subtle contrasts between illuminated areas and a darker shadow to the right create a gentle chiaroscuro effect, emphasizing the volume of the sitter and the texture of the surrounding furnishings.
History & Provenance
Born in Copenhagen in 1810 to an instrument maker and inventor, Marstrand built a reputation as both painter and illustrator during the mid‑nineteenth century. *Læsende ung pige* entered the Statens Museum for Kunst’s holdings, where it remains on display as part of the museum’s representation of Danish Golden Age art.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
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