The Royal Danish CollectionRosenborg1700-1725Gold Beaker with Frederik IV’s Initials set in Diamonds

Gold beaker with Frederik IV’s initials set in diamonds. It was a present from Count UA Holstein, Anna Sophie’s brother-in-law, who supported the enraptured king when he eloped with her from Clausholm Manor.

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Frederik IV

Frederik IV was the King of Denmark-Norway from 1699; son of Christian V and Charlotte Amalie of Hesse-Kassel. Married for the first time in 1695 to Louise of Mecklenburg-Güstrow, with whom he had Christian (VI).

Frederik IV, 1700

Frederik IV in his coronation robes. Probably painted by Bénoit le Coffre.

Frederik IV

Portrait of Frederik IV, painted by J.S. du Wahl.

Frederik IV's robe

Frederik 4th travelled to Italy twice, both times participating in the traditional carnival in Venice. When he came home, he arranged masked balls – and wore this costume pretending to be a servant; the contradiction of a lowly servant’s costume and the luxurious fabrics it was made was the kind of combination which was appreciated. His costumes were made of fabrics he’d bought in Italy. They didn’t have to be very accurate, and often the most spectacular costumes looked like something from the fantasy world of the theater. The conspicuous zig-zag pattern of gold bands, the “wings” at the shoulders, and the matching cap with its turned-up brim were all details taken from a Venetian servant’s costume. The suit consists of an open jacket of cloth-of-silver, trimmed with rust-red silk velvet and wide gold ribbons. It has a wide skirt attached in deep pleats. Underneath is a long-sleeved vest, which is made of cloth-of-gold and trimmed with silver ribbons and fringes. The knee breeches are made of cloth-of-silver and golden fringe which danced when the King moved.

The anointing of Fr. IV

Frederik 4.s salving i Frederiksborg Slotskirke 1700.