Frederik V's indtog i Horsens 1749

Poul Isac Grønvold made this print, Frederik V's entry into Horsens, using engraving techniques. Here we see a moment of public ceremony which can tell us a lot about the institutions of power in 18th-century Denmark. Grønvold's print offers a bird's-eye view of the town, emphasizing its orderly layout and prosperity. The arrival of Frederik V becomes a spectacle, reinforcing the King’s authority. Made during Frederik's reign, this print normalizes the idea of a divinely sanctioned monarch. But consider the image as a carefully constructed piece of political communication. How does it encourage viewers to accept the social hierarchy of the time? Is it an accurate depiction of Horsens, or an idealized representation of the kingdom? To understand this print fully, we might consult archival documents from the Danish Royal Court, or records of civic celebrations in Horsens.