Haderslev 1823

Søren L. Lange created this print of Haderslev, Denmark, sometime before his death in 1828. It presents a bird's-eye view of the town, complete with its red rooftops and the imposing church spire. But this isn't just a geographical record; it's a social document. Look closely at the figures in the foreground. They are not merely inhabitants, but rather, types. The well-dressed couple strolling in the foreground, the peasant woman carrying a basket, and the boy running ahead all speak to the social hierarchy of the time. This image was made during a period of significant social change in Denmark, with emerging ideas about national identity and class distinctions. The print presents a vision of an ordered society. Understanding this artwork requires us to delve into the history of 19th-century Danish society. By consulting period documents, such as census records, fashion plates, and local histories, we can understand the values and concerns of the time. This print offers us a window into a specific moment in Danish history.