Thorvald Niss 1887

This is Peder Severin Krøyer's portrait of Thorvald Niss, painted in 1887. Krøyer, a central figure in the Skagen group of artists, captured the likeness of his fellow painter Niss with loose, expressive brushstrokes. It's a profile view, where Niss is depicted with a cigar, a common emblem of bourgeois masculinity and leisure during the late 19th century. Krøyer's work often celebrated the camaraderie of artists. The choice to depict Niss, an artist in his own right, enjoying a cigar suggests a shared experience. It speaks to the social rituals and artistic identity within their circle. There's a certain melancholy, and an introspective mood to the image. Krøyer's portraits go beyond physical likeness, offering insights into the cultural and emotional landscape of his time. This is about a man, a friend, and a painter's sensibility. Krøyer captures more than just an image, he encapsulates a shared moment, a fleeting emotion, and a bond between artists.