Interior in Louis Seize style. From the artist's home. Rahbeks Allé 1897

Vilhelm Hammershøi made this painting of a room in his house using oil on canvas. His choice of materials is quite traditional, but his approach to the painted surface is what really makes this work resonate. Look closely at the walls, doors, and furniture, which are rendered in muted tones and subtle gradations. Hammershøi applied the paint thinly, almost like a wash, allowing the texture of the canvas to show through. This gives the painting a sense of depth and atmosphere, as if we're peering into a real space. Consider the social context here. Hammershøi lived in a time of great social and economic change. The rise of industrial capitalism was transforming European society. Yet, in this painting, he seems to be turning away from the modern world and retreating into a world of quiet contemplation. He takes inspiration from 18th century style furniture, a style that was reserved for members of the upper class. The materials and processes used to create this painting are integral to its meaning, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.