Et fugleskræmsel 1850

Christen Dalsgaard rendered this watercolor painting of a scarecrow on paper in 1856. The artist chose humble, everyday materials to depict the form and texture of the scarecrow. The materials and their arrangement carry the most meaning here. For instance, the basket placed as a head, the stuffed sleeves for arms, and the old clothes; they all reference the life and labor of rural communities. The level of detail emphasizes the tactile qualities of the textiles, and worn surfaces, making us consider the labor involved in producing them. It is a reminder of the close relationship between humans and the land, and the ingenuity required to protect the source of livelihood. Dalsgaard elevates these everyday materials by immortalizing them in his painting, he is encouraging us to find value and beauty in the ordinary, and to appreciate the stories embedded in the objects that surround us.