Udkast til freskerne i Viborg Domkirke. Midterhvælvingen 1897

Joakim Skovgaard made this watercolor and graphite drawing as a sketch for frescoes in Viborg Cathedral. This image presents the central vault, depicting holy figures in concentric circles. Skovgaard was part of a generation of artists in late 19th century Denmark who sought to create a distinctly national art, often drawing inspiration from the country’s history and folklore. Here, Skovgaard is contributing to the revival of religious art within a Lutheran context, reflecting a broader European trend. He was commissioned to decorate the Viborg Cathedral, a site of national importance, with frescoes that would communicate Christian narratives in a style accessible to the Danish public. The image speaks to the complex relationship between art, religion, and national identity in Denmark at the time. To better understand Skovgaard’s work, we can consult archives, theological texts, and studies of Danish cultural history. These provide insight into the cultural and institutional forces shaping the creation and reception of this artwork.