Udsigt af Hr. Conferensråd Classens lyststed uden Københavns Østerport 1803

Søren L. Lange created this print of "Udsigt af Hr. Conferensraad Classens lyststed uden Københavns Østerport" using etching and engraving techniques. The image offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Copenhagen's elite during the late 18th century. As we gaze upon the serene Classens pleasure garden, it's important to recognize that such idyllic scenes were made possible by the socio-economic structures of the time. Classen was a prominent figure, whose wealth was built upon mercantilist enterprises. His status allowed him to commission such works, reflecting his elevated position in society. Consider the figures in the landscape – are they mere aesthetic elements, or do they represent the limited access to leisure and privilege afforded to different social classes? The controlled, cultivated nature of the garden itself speaks to the power dynamics at play, contrasting sharply with the untamed landscapes accessible only to the working classes. This image captures a moment in time, inviting us to reflect on the complexities of wealth, power, and representation in 18th-century Denmark.