Elisabeth Jerichau-Baumann (1819-1881) was a prominent Danish painter known for her evocative portraits and genre scenes. Born in Warsaw, Poland, she later moved to Copenhagen, Denmark, where she became a significant figure in the 19th-century art scene. Jerichau-Baumann was the daughter of a Polish nobleman and a Danish mother, which influenced her multicultural perspective in art.
Jerichau-Baumann’s work reflects a blend of Romanticism and Realism, showcasing her ability to capture emotional depth and realism in her subjects. She was influenced by the works of Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres and Gustave Courbet, which shaped her approach to portraiture. Her style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, vibrant color palettes, and expressive brushwork.
As one of the few female artists of her time to gain recognition, Jerichau-Baumann challenged gender norms in the art world. Her contributions to portraiture and genre painting paved the way for future generations of female artists. She exhibited widely, including at the Paris Salon, where her works received critical acclaim.
Thorald Jerichau, born in 1850, was the son of Elisabeth Jerichau-Baumann and her husband, the sculptor Julius Jerichau. Their close-knit family dynamic is evident in the warmth and intimacy captured in this portrait sketch.
Thorald served as both a muse and a source of inspiration for his mother. His presence in her life influenced her artistic output, as she often depicted him in various stages of his youth, reflecting her deep maternal affection.
In this portrait sketch, Jerichau-Baumann employed traditional oil painting techniques that highlight her skillful brushwork. The texture of the canvas adds a tactile quality, enhancing the viewer’s connection to the subject.
The color palette used in the portrait is rich and emotive, with warm tones that evoke feelings of nostalgia and affection. The choice of colors symbolizes the bond between mother and son, creating a sense of intimacy.
During the 19th century, Romanticism emphasized emotion and individualism, which greatly influenced Jerichau-Baumann’s approach to portraiture. Her works often reflect the Romantic ideal of capturing the essence of the subject’s character.
Alongside Romanticism, Realism emerged as a significant movement, focusing on everyday life and ordinary people. Jerichau-Baumann’s portraits blend these two movements, showcasing both emotional depth and realistic representation.
Upon its exhibition, the portrait sketch received positive reviews for its emotional resonance and technical skill. Critics praised Jerichau-Baumann’s ability to convey the subject’s personality through subtle details.
Jerichau-Baumann’s work has influenced many contemporary artists, particularly women in the field of portraiture. Her dedication to capturing the human experience continues to inspire new generations.
The portrait sketch measures approximately 60 cm x 50 cm and is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich color and texture.
The composition of the portrait is carefully balanced, with Thorald positioned centrally, drawing the viewer’s eye. The background is subtly rendered, allowing the subject to stand out.
Jerichau-Baumann skillfully employs light and shadow to create depth in the portrait. The interplay of light enhances the three-dimensionality of Thorald’s features, adding to the emotional impact of the work.
Thorald’s features are rendered with sensitivity, capturing a range of emotions from innocence to contemplation. His expression invites viewers to connect with his inner world.
The posture of Thorald, slightly turned with a relaxed demeanor, symbolizes openness and trust. This gesture reflects the close bond he shared with his mother.
Viewers often report feeling a sense of warmth and nostalgia when viewing the portrait. Jerichau-Baumann’s ability to evoke such emotions speaks to her mastery as a portrait artist.
Jerichau-Baumann’s other portraits, such as Portrait of a Young Girl, share similar themes of familial love and emotional depth. Her technique remains consistent, showcasing her unique style.
Over time, Jerichau-Baumann’s style evolved, incorporating more elements of Impressionism in her later works. This evolution reflects her adaptability and growth as an artist.
Conservation efforts for Jerichau-Baumann’s oil paintings focus on maintaining the integrity of the canvas and preventing deterioration. Experts use advanced techniques to preserve the original colors and textures.
The portrait sketch is currently housed in the National Gallery of Denmark, where it is part of a permanent collection. Visitors can view this significant work and appreciate its historical context.
Elisabeth Jerichau-Baumann’s portrait sketch of Thorald Jerichau continues to influence contemporary portrait artists. Her ability to blend emotional depth with technical skill remains a benchmark in the field.
As a pioneering female artist, Jerichau-Baumann’s work is essential in art history studies. Her contributions challenge traditional narratives and highlight the importance of diverse voices in the art world.
Eleanor Wright, Chief Art Historian
Eleanor has over 20 years of experience in art history research and museum curation. She previously served as a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Specialization: Renaissance and Baroque Art
Portrait sketch. Presumably the artist’s son Thorald Jerichau by Elisabeth Jerichau-Baumann
Date
1860
Location
National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst), Copenhagen, Denmark
Dimensions
94.5 x 63.5 cm
Style
🖼️RomanticismPeriod
🧵19th CenturyNationality
Polish
