Who painted Frederik IV?

Frederik IV was painted by Nicolai Wichmann in 1723.

Where can I see Frederik IV?

Frederik IV is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Frederik IV?

Frederik IV is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Frederik IV

Nicolai Wichmann , 1723

Frederik IV is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Nicolai Wichmann. It dates from 1723 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Nicolai Wichmann’s oil portrait, executed in 1723, presents Frederick IV of Denmark in regal attire. The work is part of the collection of Denmark’s National Gallery, Statens Museum for Kunst, and exemplifies early‑18th‑century court portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The king is shown standing amid sumptuous surroundings, holding a scepter and positioned beside a crown placed on a nearby table. These attributes underscore his sovereign authority and the ceremonial aspects of his reign, while the lavish garments convey the prestige of the Danish monarchy.

Technique & Style

Wichmann employs a refined handling of oil paint, rendering intricate patterns on the robe and the richly textured drapery behind the figure. The composition balances light and shadow, creating depth through subtle chiaroscuro that highlights the king’s features and the opulent setting.

History & Provenance

Created shortly after Frederick IV’s accession, the portrait entered the royal collection and later transferred to the Statens Museum for Kunst. Its presence in the national museum reflects the work’s continued relevance as a visual record of Denmark’s early‑modern monarchy.