A Room in the Artist's Home in Strandgade, Copenhagen, with the Artist's Wife

Much of Hammershøi’s work shows interiors of his homes. Over the years, he would use these changing homes as both studio and subject matter. He did not choose his flats at random. In an interview with the magazine Hjemmet (The Home) in 1909, Hammershøi said: "I personally prefer the Old; old buildings, old furniture, the unique and distinct atmosphere that such things possess." Some 60 paintings are known from 30 Strandgade in Christianshavn, where Vilhelm Hammershøi and his wife Ida lived from 1898 to 1909.

Interestingly, towards the end of the 19th century and during the beginning of the 20th, several European artists portrayed work in the home and life indoors, but Vilhelm Hamnmershøi produced an infinite variety of pictures on this theme. During this period many artists were interested in photography as a point of entry to painting. The photographs in Hammershøi’s collection include several images of Copenhagen streets and backyards that appear closely linked to his paintings. His homes were chosen because they provided a sensuous space for his paintings. The rooms constitute the main setting, and in this setting the figures interact with their surroundings as if taking part in an intimate chamber play. Hammershøi is part of an international movement in which traditional subjects, such as interiors, are used to investigate the painterly space. These artists accentuate phenomena such as light, air and water over narrative; and their attention is focused on how they apply paint to the canvas.

With this painting I want to thank F. Healy, who yesterday supported us with $100 - that's a meaningful amount of money for us. Thank you for supporting DailyArt!