Nikolaj-Abraham Abilgaard Copenhagen 1743 - 1809

Canvas relined. Under a dirty, yellowish varnish. Overall the picture presents a charming image and may be hung in its present state. Ultraviolet reveals areas of retouching here and there. In a carved and painted frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The Nis is a mythical creature from Danish folklore.  Identifiable by his little red cap, the Nis was a household spirit who was generally benevolent but sometimes mischevious or even dangerous if not given his porridge.  If properly fed and tended to, the Nis would help to clean his lodgings: hence the artist's inclusion of the broom leaning on the hearth.

Abilgaard was one of the leading proponents of Neoclassicism in Scandinavia at the end of the 18th century.  A trip to Italy from 1772-1777, where he met Henry Füseli, was to have a profound influence on his painting.  From Fuseli, Abilgaard developed an interest in literary and more intensely psychological subjects, often taken, as the present composition is, from Norse folklore.