Who painted Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner?

Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner was painted by Jens Juel in 1793.

Where can I see Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner?

Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner?

Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner

Jens Juel , 1793

Kommandørkaptajn Henrik Gerner is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jens Juel. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Jens Juel, Denmark’s foremost portraitist of the late 1700s, painted the likeness of Commander‑Captain Henrik Gerner in 1793. Executed in oil on canvas, the work exemplifies the late Rococo aesthetic favored in Danish court circles and is presently held by the Statens Museum for Kunst.

Subject & Meaning

The canvas presents Henrik Gerner, an officer distinguished by his white hair and formal uniform. He is shown in a black coat trimmed with red lapels and gilded shoulder decorations, complemented by a white cravat. His gaze turns toward the right, suggesting a poised, attentive demeanor appropriate to his naval rank.

Technique & Style

Juel employs the delicate brushwork and subtle colour modulation characteristic of Rococo portraiture, using oil to achieve a nuanced modelling of flesh and fabric. The interplay of dark and bright tones—black coat against luminous highlights on the gold accents—creates depth and a tactile sense of the material.

History & Provenance

Created in 1793, the portrait entered the collection of Denmark’s national gallery, Statens Museum for Kunst, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s commitment to preserving works by Juel, who shaped Danish portraiture in the eighteenth century.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jens Juel

Jens Juel (12 May 1745 – 27 December 1802) was a Danish painter, primarily known for his many portraits, of which the largest collection is on display at Frederiksborg Castle.