Portret van Christiaan VII van Denemarken 1769

Edward Fisher produced this portrait of Christian VII, King of Denmark, using mezzotint. As an art historian, I’m drawn to the role images play in shaping public perception, particularly of those in power. This print offers a glimpse into the visual codes used to convey authority in 18th-century Denmark. Consider the formal presentation: the oval frame, the inscription declaring Christian’s title, his powdered wig, and the ornate detailing of his attire. These elements were carefully chosen to project an image of power and legitimacy. But beyond the surface, we can ask: what social conditions enabled the production and dissemination of such images? Who was the intended audience, and what message were they meant to receive? Understanding the institutional history of portraiture, the economics of printmaking, and the political climate of the time can help us unpack the complex layers of meaning embedded in this image. By consulting period documents, such as royal decrees, and analyzing the print's distribution networks, we can gain a richer understanding of the public role this portrait was intended to play.