Oscar Björck 1884

This is Peder Severin Krøyer's portrait of Oscar Björck, made with oil on canvas. Krøyer's brushstrokes are visible, and the paint has texture. The canvas support gives a rigid structure to the work, a solid ground on which Krøyer could build the image. Painted in 1884, we are in the thick of the Impressionist movement, and this portrait reflects those trends. What is interesting to me about this painting, though, is not only the quick strokes, but that the painting gives you the feeling it was done in one sitting. Krøyer captures Björck in a moment of time, the texture in the face indicating a feeling of life. It takes time and effort to master this technique, and Krøyer's confidence and ability allows him to reflect this moment, this image, in paint. This artwork bridges the gap between craft and fine art, demanding attention to its material properties, and acting as a testament to Krøyer's skills as an artist.