Portrætskitse. Maleren N.A. Abildgaard (?). 1760 - 1802

Jens Juel made this oil sketch of the painter N.A. Abildgaard, most likely in the late 18th century in Denmark. The portrait gives us a glimpse into the artistic and social circles of Copenhagen at that time. Abildgaard, a leading figure in the Danish art scene, is depicted here with the accoutrements of a gentleman. The confident stance, fashionable coat, walking stick, and hat all speak to a certain social standing. But this isn't just about status. It’s also a statement about the role of the artist in society, in which artistic and intellectual pursuits were becoming increasingly linked to national identity. Abildgaard was known for his history paintings and his involvement in the Academy, an institution that played a central role in shaping artistic taste and national identity in Denmark. To understand this work, you can delve into the archives of the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and study the biographies and letters of artists from the period. By looking at the social and institutional context, we can start to appreciate the subtle power dynamics at play.