Maleren Constantin Hansen 1860

H.W. Bissen created this sculpture, “Maleren Constantin Hansen,” out of plaster. Both Bissen and Hansen were key figures in the Danish Golden Age, a time of national romanticism and artistic flourishing, yet also a period of strict social hierarchies. Bissen, celebrated for his neoclassical style, sculpted Hansen, a painter known for his historical and mythological scenes. This bust captures Hansen’s likeness but also reflects the ideals of the era: a dignified, intellectual male figure. Consider the power dynamics at play: Bissen, as the sculptor, immortalizes Hansen, reinforcing his status. It’s interesting to think about how artists like Hansen and Bissen navigated their roles in a society that valued certain narratives and representations, shaping our understanding of Danish identity and cultural heritage. This sculpture encapsulates the artistic and social values of its time.