Artwork
Nadveren
Nadveren is an oil painting by Hendrick Krock. It dates from 1711 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1711, *Nadveren* is an oil painting by Danish court artist Hendrick Krock. Executed for the royal collection, the work now resides in the Statens Museum for Kunst. It belongs to the religious genre, portraying the biblical episode of the Last Supper with a restrained, contemplative atmosphere.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on Jesus seated at a modest table, flanked by his disciples. While some figures gaze directly at the central figure, others look downward or away, suggesting a range of personal reflection. The arrangement of a simple plate, cup and loaf of bread underscores themes of fellowship and the impending sacrifice.
Technique & Style
Krock employs a realistic approach, rendering flesh, fabric and objects with careful attention to texture. Earth‑toned garments and a muted background recede, allowing the illuminated figures to dominate the scene. The brushwork balances fine detail in the hands and faces with broader tonal washes that convey depth and quietude.
History & Provenance
Commissioned during Krock’s tenure as court painter to Frederick IV, the painting entered the royal collection shortly after its completion. It remained in the Danish royal holdings until transferred to the Statens Museum for Kunst, where it has been displayed as part of the museum’s early‑18th‑century holdings.
Context
Krock’s style reflects the influence of Italian Baroque encountered during his travels, yet adapts the dramatic flair to a more subdued Danish sensibility. His work contributed to the development of history painting in Denmark, bridging continental Baroque aesthetics with local artistic traditions in the early 1700s.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hendrick Krock (21 July 1671 – 18 November 1738) was a Danish history painter who, from 1706, was the court painter of Frederick IV as well as his successor Christian VI.
