The Royal Danish CollectionRosenborgLorenz Spengler

Lorenz Spengler

The ivory turner Lorenz Spengler, who was from Schaffhausen in Switzerland, arrived in Copenhagen in 1743. He was made court turner and taught most of the Royal family, among them Christian VI and later Frederik V, in the art of turning.

Some of Spengler’s best work is preserved in Rosenborg, among them cups of ostrich egg, ivory and amber. The principal work is a chandelier of amber made from a drawing by Marcus Tuscher. The chandelier is made as a crystal chandelier and indicates that the use of amber was continued at the Danish Court long after it went out of fashion at other European courts.

From 1771 until his death, Spengler was manager of the Chamber of Curiosities, a position later taken over by his son. As a natural scientist he became a member of the Society of Sciences. Parts of his large collection of conch shells, art materials and paintings were later taken over by the state.

Relations

Chandelier

Chandelier made in amber by Lorenz Spengler from a drawing by Marcus Tuscher.

Lathe

Queen Sophie Magdalene’s lathe designed by Diderich de Thurah, 1735-36. Turning had traditionally been a men’s hobby. In the 18th century royal women and children also learned the art, probably encouraged by the artist Lorenz Spengler who was brought to court in 1743. The lathe symbolizes Sophie Magdalene’s belief that royal dignity demanded magnificience in both great and small matters.

19 The Corridor

The Corridor on the second floor connects the central room on the floor, The Rose, with the South-end of the Palace.

14 Frederik V's Cabinet

This is the first of the rooms occupied by Frederik IV's brother, Prince Carl.

13 The Rose

The name "The Rose" dates from the time of Frederik IV, when this central antechamber was used as a dining hall for the ladies and gentlemen of the court.

1750-1775

The long peaceful period continued into the second half of the 18th century, and in time the economy also blossomed. The great powers of Europe were at war during long periods and trade found new ways to the benefit of neutral Denmark.

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.

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.