The Royal Danish CollectionAmalienborgThe kingsChristian VIII

Christian VIII

Christian VIII was the King of Denmark from 1839. His mother was Sophie Frederikke, wife of Christian VII’s brother Prince Frederik, the Heir Presumptive. It is widely believed that his father was the Heir Presumptive’s aide-de-camp. Christian was married to Charlotte Frederikke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin in 1806; they had a son, Frederik (VII). The marriage was dissolved in 1810 and in 1815 he married Caroline Amalie of Augustenborg.

For a few months in 1814 he was King of Norway under the name Christian Frederik. In Norway he gave a new constitution. He abdicated when Norway transferred to Swedish supremacy. As King of Denmark he reigned during a time of upheaval when absolute monarchy came under pressure. He carried through extensive reforms but refused to introduce a new constitution.

Christian VIII had a thorough education, for example in history and literature. He was highly interested in culture and science, and during his reign the Court had an important place in the cultural life of Copenhagen. On journeys abroad he bought items from ancient Greece, which today constitute the core of the Classical collection in the National Museum.

 

 

Relations

Bertel Thorvaldsen

Bertel Thorvaldsen is one of the most famous sculptors in Denmark. His work was clearly inspired by classiscal Greece and Rome.

Louise Augusta

Princess Louise Augusta was married to Frederik Christian of Augustenborg in 1786. She was the mother of Caroline Mathilde, the Queen of Christian VIII.

1775-1800

The time of peace lasted to the end of the century, and neutral Denmark continued to enjoy an economic upturn. At the same time a Danish nationalist tendency made its mark.

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.

1800-1825

At the beginning of the 19th century, the long peaceful period ended. International relations in connection with the Napoleonic Wars made it difficult for Denmark to stay neutral.

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.

Frederik VI

Frederik VI was the King of Denmark from 1808 and of Norway 1808-1814; son of Christian VII and Caroline Mathilde of Great Britain. He had no male heirs.