The Royal Danish CollectionRosenborgCastle historyInterior and objects18 Frederik VII's RoomCountess Danner, photo

Countess Danner, photo

Countess Danner, Frederik VII’s third wife. Coloured photograph. As a very modern king, Frederik VII’s marriage to a “mere” commoner does not stand out as something peculiar in a contemporary outlook. But in 1850, when Louise Rasmussen became both Countess Danner as well as wife of Frederik VII, the lack of royal blood along with her “bastard” child made her an obvious thorn in the side of the danish bourgeoisie and aristocracy. In spite of this political disadvantage, Frederik VII did not falter in his decision, and she thus became an ever reliable support in his otherwise frantic life.

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Frederik VII's uniform

Frederik VII’s general’s uniform, complete with tunic, trousers, scarf, sabre, sword belt, cartridge pouch and an aluminium helmet with a crowned lion, and the king’s decorations.

Frederik VII, 1861

Portrait of Frederik VII. Painting by I. Vilhelm Gertner, 1861. Only two years after the  completion of this painting Frederik VII, who is regarded as one of the most treasured kings in danish history, died.

Frederik VII's helmet

Frederik VII’s general’s helmet made of aluminium, by J.B. Dalhoff, c. 1859. The lightweight aluminium was then a newly developed and very expensive metal.

Frederik VII's wedding

Prince Frederik (VII)'s and Princess Mariane's wedding procession in Copenhagen, 22nd June 1841. Painting by C. Balsgaard, 1843.

Countess Danner

Countess Danner, originally Louise Rasmussen, was the wife of Frederik VII from 1850. Louise Rasmussen was an illegitimate child. She was trained as a ballet dancer at the Royal Theatre.

1850-1875

The social and political revolts in Europe in 1848 had ushered in new times for European states, and for Denmark too. But even though the absolute monarchy was abolished with the Constitution of 1849, the monarchy was far from disengaged from power.

Frederik VII

Frederik VII was the King of Denmark from 1848; son of Christian VIII and Charlotte Frederikke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. He was married three times but had no heirs.

Diamond-Studded Gold Ring

The ring was probably a gift from Frederik VII to Countess Danner. It is decorated with a large heart formed of diamonds, and the letters ‘Frederik VII’ are also set with diamonds.