Rotterne; Bjørnen 1845

Adolph Kittendorff created this work, "Rotterne; Bjørnen", using etching techniques. The print presents two distinct scenes, each contained within a delineated frame. On the left, we see the aftermath of a feast being raided by rats and on the right, a brown bear sits alertly by the water, observed by a man lurking behind it. Kittendorff uses line and composition to create these scenarios. The detailed etching captures the texture and form of each element from the fur of the animals to the glint of the water. The contrast between the static items in the left frame and the dynamic alertness of the right suggests a reflection on themes of nature versus civilization. The framing of each scene invites us to compare these settings. The work does not seek to offer a clear narrative, but rather creates a space for the viewer to construct their own interpretations by analyzing how space and form function.