Infancy. From the series: The Four Ages of Man 1840 - 1845

Ditlev Blunck made this oil on canvas painting titled, Infancy, likely in the first half of the 19th century. Here, Blunck makes full use of oil paint's capacity for realism, creating subtle gradations of tone and hue to depict the figures with an almost photographic accuracy. Note the texture of the fabric of the mother's headdress and cloak, or the soft skin of the infant, and consider how the artist built up the painting, layer by layer, to achieve the final image. The artist's mastery of the medium is evident, though the subject matter is rendered as if in a dream, which gives the painting a psychological edge. The detailed execution belies the slightly surreal and otherworldly scene that Blunck has created. In considering the full meaning of this artwork, we must look beyond subject matter and consider the importance of materials, making, and context. This challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.