Nyhavn. Charlottenborg-siden 1849

Georg Hoffmann created this print of Nyhavn from the Charlottenborg side, in 1837. It depicts a bustling harbour scene. The Nyhavn canal, dug in the 17th century, was a major commercial port, bringing goods from around the world. Hoffmann’s print offers a glimpse into the lives of the working class in Copenhagen. We see men loading and unloading cargo, their labour essential to the city's economy. But, these workers, often marginalized and overlooked, rarely found representation in the art of the time, beyond these types of genre scenes. Prints like these played a crucial role in shaping perceptions of national identity. By depicting everyday life in Copenhagen, Hoffmann contributed to a sense of shared experience and belonging. Look at how the architecture and the ships blend together. What do you feel when you consider this snapshot of a time gone by? Ultimately, this print is a reminder of the human stories behind the grand narratives of history. It invites us to reflect on the lives of ordinary people who shaped the city we know today.