Figurrids af kvinder 1746 - 1828

C.A. Lorentzen made this pencil drawing, "Figurrids af kvinder," sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. Its sketches of women offer us insight into the artistic process and social ideals of the time. The drawing presents studies of women in various poses, some appearing to be costumed for theatrical performance, others are simply portrait studies. The clothing and hairstyles reflect the fashion of the late 1700s, a period of significant social and political upheaval in Europe. These sketches might have been studies for larger history paintings or genre scenes, reflecting the period's fascination with representing the human figure and exploring social roles. Lorentzen, who was a history painter, seems to be exploring and defining the role of women. Were they simply to be looked at or did they have an active roll in society? To fully understand this drawing, we might look to fashion plates, theater programs, and social histories of the period. By examining these resources, we can uncover the social and institutional contexts that shaped both the artist's vision and the reception of his work.