Plantestudier 1831 - 1852

Curator: I’m immediately drawn to the subtle energy within this collection of plant studies, rendered in ink. Editor: Agreed. At first glance, there's almost a feeling of quiet observation, yet the strokes suggest something more active. The composition seems rather dense; a flurry of different species, superimposed as if gathered on a single plane. What can you tell me about this sheet? Curator: Certainly. This drawing is attributed to Dankvart Dreyer. The artwork, called “Plantestudier”, which translates to “Plant Studies” in English, was done somewhere between 1831 and 1852. It currently resides here at the SMK, or the National Gallery of Denmark. Editor: So a study from the Danish Golden Age! These almost ethereal, overlapping planes – do you find these a manifestation of any specific cultural symbol? The foliage appears unidealized, not heroic like we see in Friedrich. Curator: Indeed. Dreyer, aligning himself with Romantic ideals and the rising Realism movement, finds a sense of nation not through allegorical symbolism but in careful recording of native species. His mark making here mimics the direct and unaffected observation of truth of nature advocated by thinkers of the time. These drawings evoke an understanding of identity being linked directly with our natural surroundings, especially land. He is building on a movement that equated love for the natural world as synonymous with the development of patriotism. Editor: Yes! Look at this incredibly skillful hatching. Observe how the differing lines add form, depth, and contrast. But for what purpose? Surely these aren't botanical illustrations strictly speaking? Curator: No, not exactly. These drawings would have served Dreyer in his painting production. Through art like this, there is a cultural continuity; the rural is no longer simply scenery but a subject worthy of observation. The artwork echoes themes dear to the era of natural observation and appreciation; one with symbolic weight due to the importance nature played in nation building at this time. Editor: A subtle demonstration of nation through drawing; not an epic depiction, but a tender consideration of land in itself. These plant studies leave me contemplating the profound relationship between nature and culture, beautifully articulated in seemingly simple sketches.