Christian Krohg 1888

This is Peder Severin Krøyer's oil on canvas portrait of Christian Krohg, made in 1882. The painting encapsulates the spirit of the late 19th century in Norway. Krohg, with his defiant gaze and cigar, comes across as a figure who challenges social norms and the traditional art establishment. At this time, Norwegian artists were exploring new ways to represent national identity through realism and naturalism and were challenging the dominant academic styles. Krohg was a leading figure in this movement, advocating for social reform through his art. The portrait therefore reflects a broader cultural shift towards greater social awareness. To fully grasp the painting's historical meaning, researchers might explore Scandinavian art journals of the period, political pamphlets, and biographical accounts. These sources would further illuminate the painting's place in the social and institutional context of its time.