Frue Kirkes Indre 1776 - 1858

Jens Holm made this print of the interior of Copenhagen’s Frue Kirke, or Church of Our Lady, using etching. Completed in 1829, just a few years before this print was made, the church, with its neoclassical architecture, makes reference to ancient Greek and Roman temples, a visual manifestation of Denmark’s cultural aspirations at the time. The building was designed by Christian Frederik Hansen, who was something of an establishment architect, having also overseen the design of Copenhagen’s city hall and courthouse. But the church also stands as a monument to a period of national crisis. The previous building on this site was destroyed in the British bombardment of Copenhagen in 1807. Prints like this one served an important function in the cultural life of 19th century Europe, documenting the architecture and artworks that defined national identity. Art historians consult prints, architectural plans, and other documents to better understand the relationship between art and the social and political forces that shaped its creation.