The Panther Hunter

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The hunter raises his spear, poised to deliver the killing blow. The intense struggle and explosive release of energy is captured in a dynamic composition that vividly depicts man and beast. Frozen in time, the dramatic moment urges spectators to complete the action themselves. Like many Danish artists of the 19th century's early years, J.A. Jerichau spent some time in Rome. Symbolically, he arrived on a frigate sent to retrieve Thorvaldsen's collections for Denmark. Jerichau's ambitions soon diverged from the neoclassical restraint that characterized Bertel Thorvaldsen's (1770-1844) style - and the prevailing artistic ideals of the time. The Panther Hunter clearly showcases Jerichau's preference for classical calmness and quiet was not his interest. He focused on capturing motion and specific moments in time, using scenes packed with action and extroverted emotions. The Panther Hunter brought Jerichau international recognition, securing several high-profile commissions from Denmark and abroad. In Denmark, he was appointed professor at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and served as its director for extended periods. Jerichau's global perspective ultimately put him at odds with Denmark's trend-setting art circles, who did not share his openness to international artistic trends.