Harvest 1887

Fritz Syberg created this painting called ‘Harvest’, though we don’t know exactly when. It shows two women walking across a golden field, likely in Denmark. The scene reflects a shift in Danish art towards everyday life, moving away from grand historical or mythological themes. Artists began focusing on landscapes and the lives of ordinary people, such as these harvesters. This change in focus reflects broader social and political movements in Europe. The rise of nationalism and a growing interest in local culture encouraged artists to depict scenes from their own countries. To truly understand Syberg’s 'Harvest', we need to delve into the archives of the Danish art world. Researching the political and cultural climate of the time can reveal how this painting participates in the social conversations of its day. Art, after all, doesn't exist in a vacuum, but in a web of social and institutional relations.