Artwork

St. John's Eve. Farmers who have awakened from sleep on a mound, dance around the fire

St. John's Eve. Farmers who have awakened from sleep on a mound, dance around the fire is an oil painting by the Realist artist Jørgen Sonne. It dates from 1816 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

This 1816 oil painting by Jørgen Sonne depicts a nocturnal scene of farmers dancing around a fire on a mound.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures a moment of communal celebration, with traditionally dressed farmers lost in the joy of the occasion, suggesting a connection to the midsummer festival of St. John's Eve.

Technique & Style

Rendered in a realist style, the painting contrasts the warm, golden light of the fire with the dark night sky, creating a vivid atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created by Danish genre painter Jørgen Sonne, known for his battle scenes, the painting is now part of the Statens Museum for Kunst collection.