To jagthunde 19th century

Curator: Here we have “To jagthunde,” or “Two Hunting Dogs,” a 19th-century lithograph. It is believed to be by N.B. Krossing and now resides here at the SMK, the Statens Museum for Kunst. Editor: Oh, I like this. The dogs seem so alert, caught in a moment of anticipation. The sketchy quality of the lithograph actually adds to that feeling of raw energy. Curator: The print speaks to the burgeoning interest in naturalism during that era, specifically representing animals with what was perceived to be scientific accuracy, and also reflecting the increased prominence of hunting as both leisure and a cultural activity for the upper classes. Editor: There’s a lot of negative space, yet my eye is glued to the speckled dog in the foreground. It makes me think about companionship and the role of animals in our lives. Also, that tail...that's the tail of a happy dog! Curator: Indeed. Hunting prints were often commissioned, demonstrating both the owner's wealth, but also highlighting the lineage and skill of valued animals bred and trained for a particular activity. Editor: Looking at the print, I feel almost like I'm with them, the earth soft underfoot, the quiet thrill of the hunt about to begin. This one could even be titled: “A walk in the woods with my dogs”. What do you think? Curator: Well, the print also participated in a broader visual culture, reflecting specific values attached to particular breeds. Images like these helped to reinforce the social meaning of both the hunt, as well as what it represented in the 19th century. Editor: All the socio-political stuff aside, and stepping back, it's just quite a lovely composition. The positioning of the dogs, their varied sizes…the print seems really well executed, drawing you straight in. I could stare at this all day. Curator: Precisely! This image presents both the specific moment and its place in a wider societal understanding. Seeing it now, we might understand how depictions like this also helped construct broader meanings related to animal breeds and ownership that persist even to this day. Editor: Hmmm, I suppose you are right...Still, when I look at it, it's hard not to be moved by that shared feeling, those quiet woodland vibes that the artist captured.