Vigilius Erichsen

Place: Copenhagen

Born: 1722

Death: 1782

Biography:

Vigilius Erichsen, a renowned Danish painter, was born on September 2, 1722, in Copenhagen and passed away on May 25, 1782, in Rungstedgård. He is notable for being the royal portraitist to Christian VI of Denmark.

Early Life and Education

Erichsen initially studied under Johann Salomon Wahl. In 1755, he was awarded a gold medal in painting at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, but was denied entry into the institution. Despite this setback, Erichsen quickly developed a reputation for his portraits.

Notable Works and Career

Between 1757 and 1772, Erichsen traveled and worked in Saint Petersburg, where he became the imperial court painter. He painted several portraits of Catherine the Great, as well as other royals. After a number of lucrative commissions, Erichsen returned to Denmark to continue his work as a royal portraitist. Some of his notable works include:

• Portrait of Juliana Maria: an image in pastel of the Dowager Queen.
• Caroline Mathilde with her son on her lap: attributed to Erichsen.
• A series of miniature enamel paintings, including ones of Frederick V and Catherine the Great.

features some of Erichsen's works, such as The Queen Dowager Juliane Marie. The National Gallery of Denmark also houses some of his paintings.

Legacy and Recognition

Erichsen was recognized as a considerable portrait painter during his time. His excellent reproduction of subjects earned him comparisons to Titian, Urbin, and Angelo. For more information on Vigilius Erichsen, visit Vigilius Erichsen's page on Wikioo.org or his Wikipedia page. Some of his works can be found in the collection at Rosenborg, including a portrait of Lorenz Spengler, an art turner. Erichsen's widow, Ida Christine née Basse Bech, survived him for many years and died in 1809.