This exquisite early 20th-century genre scene by Danish artist Valdemar Kornerup (1865-1924) depicts a gentleman reading from the bible while his wife knits. It’s been rendered with extraordinary attention to detail and it’s a first-class example of Danish scenes from the period. Kornerup produced this work in 1922 towards the end of his life and drew upon the masters of the Golden Age.

Note how he’s handled the light as it cascades through the potted plants and reflects from the table. Each element is carefully observed. The copper teapot is also rendered to perfection with a hint of darkening around the handle. And the teacups with resting spoons to stir in the sugar lumps piled in a glass dish.

It’s a fabulous work, worthy of any museum, and lifted via pops of colour that shine above the woody interior - such as the sampler on the wall.

Inscribed on the reverse and held within a traditional frame.

Learn more about Valdemar Kornerup in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 28” x 25½” / 71cm x 65cm
Year of creation: 1922
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £7,500 achieved for an oil painting in 1994 and more recently £4,822 for an oil painting in 2020.