The Royal Danish CollectionRosenborgBust of Christian IV

Bust of Christian IV

Bronze bust of Christian IV, modelled in 1643 in Copenhagen by François Dieussart and cast in Glückstadt in 1650. This bust was crafted only the year before he lost sight on his right eye, after the naval battle of Kolberger Heide, resulting in his subsequent wish to be portrayed only from his left.

He is dressed as a roman emperor, typified in the lion heads on his shoulders along with the laurel wreath on his head. This piece is the earliest known example of a renaissance bust – a tradition since frequently used.

As far as we know, Dieussart did not have any experince in regards to bronze crafting, making this bust all the more spectacular, since it is not only regarded as a one of his best, but one of the best portrait sculptures from around his time.

 

Relations

Peephole

As a king one was obliged to perform a number of duties, including recieving various guest of high and low, oftentimes in designated audience rooms.

Chr. III's Sword of State

Christian III's Sword of State. Grip and scabbard of gilt silver with enamel and table-cut stone.

Busts of Prince Christian (VIII) Frederik and Princess Caroline Amalie

Bronze busts of Prince Christian (VIII) Frederik and Princess Caroline Amalie. crafted by Bertel Thorvaldsen, 1821.

Chr. IV og Anne Cathrine, 1612

King Christian IV and Queen Anne Cathrine. It was originally two separate portraits. The King was painted by Pieter Isaacsz, c. 1612.

Christian IV, 1585

Portrait of Christian IV at the age of 7 a short while after he was elected the crownprince and succesor by the Royal Council; painted around 1585 by Hans Knieper.

1: Christian IV's Winter Room

The Winter Room is the best preserved room from the original Castle, and it was the most important of the King's three private chambers.

1625-1650

The second half of Christian IV's reign became a time of recession. The economic crisis became more severe, and at the same time the fortunes of war turned.

Christian IV

Christian IV was the King of Denmark and Norway from 1588; crowned in 1596. Son of Frederik II and Sophie of Mecklenburg.