Abracadabra. Ach, Spar mit naadige Liv, Hr. Gienganger! Gravering efter Lorentzens Holberg Galleri. 1823 - 1831

Curator: Here we have an engraving from between 1823 and 1831, after a piece from Lorentzens Holberg Galleri. The engraver was J.F. Clemens. It’s titled rather wonderfully: "Abracadabra. Ach, Spar mit naadige Liv, Hr. Gienganger!" Editor: It's captivating, even a bit spooky! The figure with the bestial mask immediately grabs you, emerging from what appears to be a dark doorway. It reminds me a little bit of stagecraft. Curator: That’s a great observation. The piece illustrates a scene from Holberg's play "Abracadabra". Holberg, being a celebrated playwright in Denmark. You feel that sense of theater! Editor: I'm intrigued by the mask. What sort of archetype would you say that comes from? Is it a kind of devil, perhaps? Curator: It’s interesting. Given Holberg’s satirical style, and looking at his themes that would relate to social criticism and folly, the bestial mask on the figure could definitely represent foolishness. The engraving's symbols invite that sort of reading. Think about how animals feature in fables. It feels similar to me, if that makes sense. Editor: Yes, definitely. In that period there was a lot of psychological projection onto the animal kingdom. They became external carriers for our inner states and social critiques, often serving to mock our shared humanity. It is very interesting, indeed! Curator: And you see it playing out with the other figures too! With the lantern hanging in that alleyway, and the man pleading. He clearly fears this “thing” in front of him, but we aren’t entirely sure whether to sympathize or see him as the object of the play’s satire, Editor: A theatrical dance, then, lit by dim light. There's a sense of unease hanging over the entire scene. I find it quite unsettling! It would certainly be striking onstage! Curator: I completely agree. The shadows enhance it all and it all works together wonderfully! A piece that encourages one to imagine. Editor: Agreed. Thank you. This work allows one to truly consider what hides behind the masks we encounter and wear!