Biskop Hersleb salver Kong Frederik V i Frederiksborg Slotskirke. Illustration og Vignet til Frederik d. IV's salvingsakt 1749

This illustration by Odvardt Helmoldt de Lode captures the coronation of King Frederik V in Frederiksborg Castle Church. Created in mid 18th-century Denmark, the image is rich with symbolism tied to the cultural and political climate of the time. The ceremony depicts Bishop Hersleb anointing the King, underscoring the divine right of monarchs. Consider how the sacred space, filled with figures of power and authority, reinforces the King's legitimacy. This imagery would have resonated deeply in a society where the church and monarchy were intertwined, and where royal power was seen as divinely ordained. The image reflects a self-consciously conservative stance, reinforcing the power of the monarchy and the established social order. Understanding this artwork requires delving into the history of the Danish monarchy, the role of the church, and the socio-political dynamics of 18th-century Denmark. Through careful research, we can uncover the complex layers of meaning embedded within.