This early 20th-century grisaille by Danish artist, Erik Henningsen (1855-1930), depicts a farmer sharpening a scythe during harvest time. It’s imbued with strength, the energy of labour, and a stoic determination to overcome.

Note the composition - he’s upright and creating the only vertical in the landscape. Head down towards the scythe, raised above the horizon, feet planted in the crop. The hands are oversized.

He’s a man in control of his destiny.

The painting is monogrammed in the lower right and housed within a gilt frame.

Learn more about Erik Henningsen in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas laid on wood
Overall size: 17” x 20½” / 43cm x 52cm
Year of creation: c. 1900
Condition: Craquelure in areas. Frame with light wear.
Artist’s Auction Highlight: £108,000 achieved for ‘The Dinner Party’ at Sotheby’s in 1996.