Cappucinerkloster i Spoleto 1801 - 1819

J.L. Lund made this drawing of a Capuchin Monastery in Spoleto using pen and ink, but the date remains unknown. Here, the artist seems to be following a well-established tradition. From the 17th century onwards, monasteries and other religious retreats offered a place for artists to contemplate their relationship with nature. Away from the city and its institutions, such as the academy, the artist could reflect on nature and come to new creative insights. The Capuchins were known for their simple life and connection to nature, and their monasteries were often located in remote, beautiful areas. Lund’s delicate drawing invites us to consider how the cultural values associated with the monastery shape the way we see this Italian landscape. To understand Lund’s drawing fully, it is necessary to consult travel journals and other documents. In doing so, the social and institutional context can be revealed.