Gerhard Ludwig Lahde - A Tailor Working at his Desk

Gerhard Ludwig Lahde (Bremen 1765–1833 Köpenhamn)

A Tailor Working at his Desk

Ink and wash on paper, mounted on a 19th-century backing inscribed “G. L. Lahde del.”
unframed: 14.2 x 10 cm (5 5/8 x 3 7/8 in)
framed: 37 x 32 cm (14 5/8 x 12 5/8 in)

Provenance:
Benjamin Wolff (1790–1866) (Lugt 420)
Thence by descent until 2018;
An important private collection, Stockholm. 

Exhibited:
The Nivaagaard Collection, Tegnekunst på Nivaagaard 2, 1984, no. 40, illustrated

Essay:
This drawing was likely intended as a preparatory work for a series of prints depicting local crafts.

Lahde, born in Bremen, was admitted to the Danish Academy of Fine Arts in 1787. After completing model school, he trained in the art of engraving under Johann Friedrich Clemens (1749–1831). He received several academic honors, including the small silver medal (1790), the large silver medal (1791), and the small gold medal (1792). Though originally planning to return to Bremen, Lahde decided to settle in Copenhagen, where he established himself as a successful printmaker and publisher. In 1792, he became a Danish citizen, and in 1799, he was appointed Engraver to the Danish Court.

In 1805, Lahde acquired a property on Gothersgade, where he managed a thriving business. The property also served as a residence and workspace for notable artists such as C.W. Eckersberg and Johannes Senn.

Lahde is best known for his engravings, which range from topographical views to depictions of everyday life. His works serve as valuable historical documents, capturing significant events such as the Christiansborg Palace fire (1794), the Copenhagen Fire (1795), and the bombardments of Copenhagen in 1801 and 1807. He also produced street scenes, portraits of prominent figures, and series showcasing traditional costumes. Many of his prints were hand-colored by his daughters or assistants, further enhancing their appeal.