919/​90

Astrid Holm (b. Copenhagen 1876, d. s.p. 1937)

Purchased by Fuglsang Kunstmuseum, March 2024

Standing female model. Signed A.H. and A. Holm. Oil on canvas. 41×27 cm.

In recent years, Astrid Holm has rightly gained renewed interest and recognition. As a colourist, she is unsurpassed, but she did not gain the same status during her lifetime as her male colleagues – and is then almost forgotten entirely. In a Danish context, Astrid Holm is a key participant in the modernist breakthrough. Holm began her artistic training at Emilie Mundt and Marie Luplau’s art school, then at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts’ School of Art for Women. She is subsequently one of the first Danes to travel to Paris, where she stayed for a longer period from 1909–1914 and becomes a natural part of the international art scene and – as the only Dane – a student of Henri Matisse.

Back in Denmark, she is seen as an energetic and innovative cosmopolitan artist who, until her death is deeply committed to improving educational and exhibition opportunities for female artists while engaging in social issues. In 1916, she establishes her own art school, and in 1921, she becomes the first female teacher at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, as the leader of a newly established weaving school. Her pictorial production is thus limited, as she spends time and energy on educational and organisational pursuits.

Holm brings Matisse’s Fauvism and Cezanne’s Cubism back home with her from France, which was expressed in her landscapes, interiors, still-lifes and figure paintings, as seen in the fine work we’re offering here. For the male artist, the woman will always be something other than herself, which has often led to very distanced and stereotypical portrayals of women – as types rather than real people. Freed from the oppressive gaze, Holm’s models present themselves as they really are. The model stands relaxed and self-confident with bodily strength and curvaceous forms, portrayed with understanding, presence and honesty. The palette is incredibly rich – a cacophony of colours and shades, resounding with strong contrasts. However, with Holm’s unrivalled colouristic sense, the viewer is left with a sense of calm and balance.

This lot is part of our ongoing theme: Pioneering Women Artists 1850-1950

Additional Remarks

Please note: The item is subject to the Anti-Money Laundering Act. In the event of a hammer price of DKK 50,000 or more, including buyer’s premium, the buyer must submit a copy of a valid photo ID and proof of address in order to collect the item.

Auction

Pioneering Women Artists, 4 March 2024

Category
Estimate

60,000–80,000 DKK

Sold

Price realised

55,000 DKK