The Royal Danish CollectionRosenborgCastle historyInterior and objects13 The RoseChristian VI, c. 1740

Christian VI, c. 1740

Portrait of Christian VI, painted by J.S. du Wahl. In opposition to his fathers’ rather frivolous private life, he tried to distance himself and devoted himself to pietism. Proclaimed as king in 1730, he was the first king of the House of Oldenburg, to refrain from entering in any war. Instead of warring, he chose to show his wealth and power by erecting various castles in the countryside. His most precious contribution was, however, without a doubt the new centre of power during absolutism called Christiansborg Castle, which replaced the old and medieval style Copenhagen Castle.

Relations

Sophie Magdalene, 1733

Queen Sophie Magdalene. Painted by J.S. du Wahl.

Throne for audience

Armchair with silver covering. Made by A.F. Holling in Copenhagen, 1740, for Christian VI's Audience Chamber at Christiansborg Palace.

Queen Louise, 1710

Queen Louise. Painted by J.S. du Wahl. Louise of Mecklenburg-Güstrow was married to the crown prince of Denmark, Frederik IV, in 1695.

Sophie Magdalene

Sophie Magdalene became Queen of Denmark in 1730. She was the daughter of Margrave Christian Heinrich of Brandenburg-Kulmbach. In 1721 she was married to Prince Christian (VI). She was the mother of Frederik V.

1725-1750

The conclusion of the Great Nordic War in 1720 was the beginning of a long Danish period of peace. Christian VI succeeded Frederik IV in 1730, and his was the first reign during which Denmark was not at war.

Christian VI

Christian VI was the King of Denmark-Norway from 1730; son of Frederik IV and Louise of Mecklenburg-Güstrow. He was married to Sophie Magdalene of Brandenburg-Kulmbach in 1721. Father of Frederik V.