Artwork
Kirchen Cermonien und Krönung des Zweigen Königs Christiani der Vierden... (Church Ceremonies and Coronation of the Eternal King Christian IV in Copenhagen on August 29, 1596
Kirchen Cermonien und Krönung des Zweigen Königs Christiani der Vierden... (Church Ceremonies and Coronation of the Eternal King Christian IV in Copenhagen on August 29, 1596 is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Philipp Uffenbach. It dates from 1596 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This etching on laid paper, titled 'Kirchen Cermonien und Krönung des Zweigen Königs Christiani der Vierden.
About this work
The artist used sharp lines to show every detail, from armor to robes, making it feel almost like a crowded newspaper from long ago.
This etching is packed with tiny, busy scenes. At the center, a king sits on a raised chair under a canopy, while people crowd around him. To the left, a church with a tall steeple burns, and soldiers fight near the flames. On the right, more people gather around a tall tower, some on horseback, others walking. The whole scene feels chaotic but organized, like a story told in layers.
The text at the bottom names this the coronation of King Christian IV in 1596. The artist used sharp lines to show every detail, from armor to robes, making it feel almost like a crowded newspaper from long ago.
Next, check out etching to see how artists like Uffenbach carved these precise lines into metal.
Overview
This etching on laid paper, titled 'Kirchen Cermonien und Krönung des Zweigen Königs Christiani der Vierden...', depicts a complex scene with multiple events. Created around 1596 by Philipp Uffenbach, it is now held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates the coronation of King Christian IV of Denmark on August 29, 1596, in Copenhagen. The scene is layered with various activities, including a church fire and military engagement, alongside the central coronation ceremony.
Technique & Style
Uffenbach's work is characterized by fine, detailed lines achieved through etching, capturing textures such as armor and ceremonial robes. The technique allows for a dense, narrative-rich composition that conveys a sense of organized chaos.
Artist & collection
Artist
Philipp Uffenbach was a German painter and etcher. He was born in Frankfurt, and trained under Hans Grimmer. One of his pupils was Adam Elsheimer. His interests included mechanics, geometry alchemy, and anatomy.
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