Christian V.s Apoteose 1666 - 1739

Magnus Berg created this drawing called Christian V's Apotheosis using pen and brown ink in the late 17th or early 18th century. The image depicts the deceased King Christian V ascending to the heavens and joining the company of the gods. As an allegory, it tells us a great deal about the society and institutions that gave it meaning. In a hierarchical society, it was critical to visually represent power and authority, particularly in newly absolutist states like Denmark. Here, mythology, religion, and the monarchy combine to form a potent image of divine right. Art historians often interpret this drawing in light of the conventions of royal portraiture and Baroque ceiling paintings. In doing so, they might consult historical documents, such as royal archives and emblem books, to better understand the symbols used in the artwork and the political context in which it was made.