Two figures in the clouds, one of them possibly an allegory of a wind 18th century

Curator: Here we have an 18th-century drawing from an anonymous hand. It’s titled “Two figures in the clouds, one of them possibly an allegory of a wind," and it’s currently housed at the SMK, the Statens Museum for Kunst. Pencil and ink, softly rendered. What catches your eye first? Editor: That hesitant touch. It’s almost whispered onto the page. It feels ephemeral, like trying to catch a dream slipping away. Are they floating, falling, intertwined? I can’t quite tell. Curator: Precisely. The lack of definitive lines contributes to that feeling of ambiguity. Note how the cloud forms almost dissolve into the figures themselves, especially on the right side. Baroque sensibilities, absolutely revelling in fluidity and movement. Editor: There’s something ancient about this embrace, yet vulnerable. That figure with wings...those look a little like insect wings. Which lends this image a bit of pathos for me. Curator: A surprising interpretation. Butterfly wings would signal transformation, of course, and were common attributes for representing Psyche...But moths—yes, the associations change entirely. Perhaps our artist intended to convey mortality along with the usual Baroque grandeur? Editor: Or the relentless pursuit of an ideal. Moths are, after all, drawn to a deadly flame. Perhaps this 'wind' isn't a gentle breeze but an irresistible, destructive force. Look how he supports that older, world-wearier figure… as if compelled. Curator: That shadow just beneath the chin of the wind... it really gives weight to your point about that contrast! Editor: Right? And speaking of interpretations—did you say this was an *anonymous* piece? Maybe its elusive, indefinite form adds to the enduring enigma. Curator: Exactly. Without a known artist, the drawing becomes less about personal expression and more about universal themes. Editor: So we are left floating in this visual poem of human frailty, caught between earth and sky. Curator: What a nice place to be.