Frederik II Builds Kronborg Castle at Elsinore 1781 - 1782

Nicolai Abildgaard's "Frederik II Builds Kronborg Castle at Elsinore" (1781-1782) is a historical painting that depicts the Danish King Frederik II overseeing the construction of Kronborg Castle. The scene is set outdoors with a group of men, possibly architects and advisors, gathered around the king who is studying a map. The castle is visible in the background. This monumental work is an example of Neoclassicism, a style that emphasized historical subjects and rational composition. The work is currently housed in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst.