Artwork
Motiv fra Ludvig Holbergs "Jeppe på Bjerget", III akt, 3. scene
Motiv fra Ludvig Holbergs "Jeppe på Bjerget", III akt, 3. scene is a photography by the Romanticist artist Unknown artist. It is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The image, titled Motiv fra Ludvig Holbergs “Jeppe på Bjerget”, III akt, 3.
About this work
Overview
The image, titled Motiv fra Ludvig Holbergs “Jeppe på Bjerget”, III akt, 3. scene, is an illustration of a moment from the third act, third scene of Ludvig Holberg’s comedy Jeppe på Bjerget. It is part of the Museum of Ethnography’s collection and is associated with the Romanticism movement.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a woman dressed in a black gown accented with gold embroidery, complemented by a red cape.
The composition centers on a woman dressed in a black gown accented with gold embroidery, complemented by a red cape. She holds a spear and an hourglass, symbols that may allude to power and the passage of time. Adjacent to her stands an older man, his gaze fixed on a globe, suggesting contemplation of the wider world.
A boy on the right side blows bubbles, introducing a playful element that contrasts with the more formal figures.
Technique & Style
Rendered in the Romantic style, the work emphasizes dramatic contrast and emotive detail. The rich coloration of the woman’s attire and the careful rendering of the globe and bubbles demonstrate a focus on narrative clarity and atmospheric tension typical of early‑19th‑century illustration.
History & Provenance
Created in 1811, the piece is attributed to Xun Xu, a Chinese polymath known for his roles as musician, painter, politician, and writer during the late Three Kingdoms and early Jin periods. Though the artist’s historical timeline predates the date, the work entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings where it remains on display.
Context
Holberg’s play, a staple of Danish‑Norwegian comedy, explores themes of social status and human folly. The illustration captures a pivotal scene where characters confront notions of authority and destiny, aligning with Romantic interests in individual experience and emotional depth.
Artist & collection
Artist
Xun Xu (c. 221 – 289), courtesy name Gongzeng, was a Chinese musician, painter, politician, and writer who lived during the late Three Kingdoms period and early Jin dynasty of China. Born in the influential Xun family,…
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