Artwork

Frederik VII's ligfærd d. 2. december 1863

Frederik VII's ligfærd d. 2. december 1863, by Unknown, 1889
Frederik VII's ligfærd d. 2. december 1863, by Unknown, 1889

Frederik VII's ligfærd d. 2. december 1863 is a photography by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Frederik VII’s ligfærd d.

About this work

Overview

Frederik VII’s ligfærd d. 2. december 1863 is an image produced in 1889 by the artist identified as 1349_person. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed as a visual document of the Danish monarch’s funeral procession on 2 December 1863.

Subject & Meaning

The picture records the solemn atmosphere of the royal funeral, depicting the ceremonial route beneath a darkened sky. Architectural elements such as arched windows and a long balcony frame the scene, while a red flag on the left side signals the presence of state authority. The reflective water below adds a quiet, contemplative quality to the event.

Technique & Style

The composition relies on strong contrasts of light and shadow, a chiaroscuro approach that heightens the dramatic mood. Illuminated windows and warm glows on the balcony stand out against the surrounding gloom, creating a visual focus on the ritual space while the overall effect remains restrained and realistic.

History & Provenance

Created three decades after the actual funeral, the image was likely intended to commemorate the historical moment for later audiences. It entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains part of the institution’s documentation of 19th‑century Danish cultural events.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known