Studie af Egebjerg-krucifixet 1919

Editor: Here we have Niels Larsen Stevns' 1919 ink drawing, "Studie af Egebjerg-krucifixet," housed at the SMK. It’s clearly a sketch, very raw and immediate. I'm struck by how the artist uses such minimal lines to convey suffering and a sense of heaviness in the figure. What do you see in this piece, particularly regarding its historical context? Curator: Well, it's crucial to remember that Stevns was working during a period of intense social and political upheaval, particularly following the First World War. How do you think the artist's choice to depict Christ on the cross, during that period, can be interpreted? To me, this choice invites questions about institutional power, social suffering, and even ideas around sacrifice in light of the horrors of war. The raw sketch-like nature also lends itself to that reading, right? Editor: Absolutely. The roughness contrasts with traditional, idealized depictions of Christ. Was he challenging traditional religious interpretations? Curator: Precisely. By foregoing a polished representation, Stevns subverts expectations of reverence. It might encourage viewers to engage with themes of faith, doubt, and social justice, not through the established lens of the church, but through a more direct, human connection. The figure almost seems vulnerable, even defeated, highlighting humanity over divinity, perhaps reflecting post-war disillusionment. What do you think? Editor: That makes me consider the accessibility of the artwork, particularly in a time of mass uncertainty. The choice to portray human vulnerability using art, in the aftermath of collective trauma, would've made the message much more powerful. I definitely look at it differently now! Curator: Agreed. Understanding art means unpacking the loaded history it carries with it.