The British Bombardment of Copenhagen, Night Between 4th and 5th of September 1807 1807

Christian August Lorentzen painted “The British Bombardment of Copenhagen, Night Between 4th and 5th of September 1807” to depict the devastation caused by the British Navy. The painting offers a dramatic view of a city under siege, with buildings ablaze and civilians fleeing in terror. The artwork’s meaning is created through the stark contrast between light and shadow. The fiery glow of the burning city is set against the dark night sky, emphasizing the chaos and destruction of war. It’s important to remember that Denmark at the time was caught between Napoleon's France and Great Britain. The British feared the Danish fleet would fall into French hands, hence the attack on Copenhagen. It was a brutal event that had lasting repercussions for Danish society and its relationship to the rest of Europe. Lorentzen’s painting can be understood as a statement on the tragedy of war and its impact on civilian populations. Art historians use a range of resources, including military records, eyewitness accounts, and cultural studies to better understand the context and meaning of the artwork.