Peder Kroyer, Summer Evening on Skagen Beach, 1893, oil on canvas, Skagen Museum, Skagen, Denmark
Oh, the pure, quiet light of a summer evening!
The scene is tranquil. The serenity of the two women caught up in quiet conversation as they stroll along the beach, the cool sunlight illuminating this far-north region of Denmark, the beautiful reflection of the setting sun on the long, white gowns, the way the warm yellow of one of the woman’s sash is picked up in the yellow tones of the sand, and the way the sky, ocean, and beach are one…the composition is simply enchanting.
Summer Evening on Skagen Beach was inspired by an evening stroll along the beach that artist Anna Ancher and Kroyer’s wife, Marie, took following a dinner party. The horizon appears dissolved in the mist, dispersing blue light that is reflected beautifully and peacefully in the sea. This painting is regarded as Kroyer’s best-known and best-loved work.
What do you feel as you gaze at this painting? Tranquility perhaps? Does the painting have you thinking about friendships? Relaxing walks? Cherished moments with friends in the beauty of nature?…