Portræt af Eline Skovgaard? 1899

This is a sketch of Eline Skovgaard, believed to be created in 1899 by Joakim Skovgaard. Skovgaard, who lived through a time of significant social change, made a name for himself during the Danish Golden Age. Portraits during this period often reflected the sitter's social standing and character. Here, the youth of the sitter dominates our attention, yet her thoughtful gaze and the artist’s careful attention to her features suggest a unique identity beyond mere representation. Although the work appears traditional in its form, the subtleties of the subject's expression offer a personal narrative, inviting viewers to consider the individual. The sketch invites us to reflect on the intimate and familial aspects of art-making. It subtly challenges the expected norms, highlighting the individual's presence and internal life.