J. Conradt 1837

Edvard Lehmann produced this portrait of J. Conradt in Denmark using lithography. Lehmann was a painter and printmaker, known for his portraits of Danish society figures, often those connected to the royal court. In this period, portraits served to solidify status and project power, so it’s no surprise that Conradt is pictured in full military regalia. The medals, the high collar, and the sharp lines of his uniform all speak to his authority. Lehmann worked at a time when Denmark was trying to redefine itself after the Napoleonic Wars, and the military was seen as a symbol of national pride and stability. Royal patronage played a big role in the art world. Artists like Lehmann relied on commissions from the elite, and museums often collected works that celebrated national identity and historical narratives. To understand this portrait fully, we might look into military archives and genealogical records. By investigating the institutions and social structures of 19th-century Denmark, we gain insights into the meaning of this image, which is more than just a picture; it's a cultural artifact.