Christian VIII 1846

This is Felicie Tourniell’s lithograph of Christian VIII, created in 1846. It captures the Danish king in a moment of formal portraiture, adorned with royal insignia, reflecting the visual language of power and authority prevalent in 19th-century European monarchies. Tourniell, as a female artist navigating a male-dominated art world, provides a unique perspective. The very act of a woman portraying a king invites us to consider questions of gender and representation. How does a female gaze shape the depiction of male power? Does it challenge or reinforce traditional notions of masculinity and leadership? Consider the emotional depth – or lack thereof – in Christian VIII's gaze. Is there an attempt to humanize the king, or is the lithograph primarily concerned with conveying his status and position? What does it mean to see this image today, considering the legacies of colonialism, nationalism, and social hierarchy that Christian VIII’s reign represents? This lithograph is not just a historical record but an invitation to reflect on the complexities of power, representation, and identity.