Havneparti ved København 1866 - 1914

Max Kleinsorg created this etching titled, "Harbour Scene near Copenhagen" using blue ink to depict a cityscape dominated by the sea. The composition is structured by the interplay of vertical masts and the horizontal lines of buildings and the bridge. Notice how the artist uses dense clusters of fine, etched lines to create depth and texture, particularly in the water and the reflections, which adds a shimmering quality to the scene. Kleinsorg masterfully balances detail and simplicity, giving enough information to evoke a sense of place without overwhelming the eye. The limited use of colour enhances the print’s contemplative mood, typical of the aesthetic movements at the turn of the century. The reflections in the water mimic and slightly distort the forms above, offering a semiotic commentary on reality versus perception. It destabilizes the clear definition of objects and invites a deeper reflection on the nature of seeing. Ultimately, this work functions as a visual poem, where the formal qualities of line, tone, and composition combine to evoke a melancholic yet serene experience of the Copenhagen harbour.