Studie til prins Hans' hoved på Christian I billedet i Christiansborg riddersal 1778 - 1779

This charcoal study by Nicolai Abildgaard, created between 1778-1779, depicts the profile of Prince Hans, son of King Christian I of Denmark. The study, currently housed in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, is a preparatory drawing for a larger portrait of the king, intended for the Knights' Hall of Christiansborg Palace. The drawing demonstrates Abildgaard's skillful use of line and shading to capture the likeness of his subject, emphasizing the delicate features of the young prince. This piece offers insight into the artistic process behind a major historical portrait and the meticulous detail involved in creating a lifelike image.