Frederik V's passerer æresporten i Horsens 1749

Poul Isac Grønvold made this print of Frederik V’s visit to Horsens using etching, a printmaking technique. The image captures a moment of public ceremony, and these kinds of royal entries were crucial for displaying and reinforcing the power of the monarchy in 18th-century Denmark. The print meticulously depicts the erected arch, adorned with royal symbols and portraits, which acts as a stage for the king’s passage. The surrounding crowd, a mix of social classes, underscores the monarchy's claim to national unity and popular support. This imagery, however, is carefully constructed. Consider the role of institutions in shaping this representation. The city council, local guilds, and the church, all invested in demonstrating their loyalty, likely contributed to the event’s organization and funding. Historical records, such as city archives and royal accounts, can offer further insights into the social dynamics and political motivations behind such displays of royal power. The image tells us much about the political function of art.