Constantin Hansen

Place: Rome

Born: 1804

Death: 1880

Biography:

Early Life and Training

, a prominent figure in the , was born on November 3, 1804, in Rome, Italy. His father, Hans Hansen, was a portrait painter, and his godmother was the widow of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. After his family relocated to Vienna and then Copenhagen, Hansen began his artistic journey at the Royal Danish Academy of Art (Det Kongelige Danske Kunstakademi) at the age of 12.

Artistic Career

Initially, Hansen studied architecture but later shifted his focus to painting under Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg in 1828. Following the loss of both parents due to typhus, Hansen became the sole supporter of his younger sisters and took over several commissions, including those for the Portrait Collection at Frederiksborg Palace and decorative paintings for Christiansborg Palace.

Travel and Inspiration

Between 1835 and 1837, Hansen received a two-year stipend to travel abroad, which he extended by an additional year. His travels took him through Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Nuremberg, and Munich before arriving in Italy, where he met fellow Dane Bertel Thorvaldsen. This period significantly influenced his work, as seen in , a painting that showcases his sensuous and erotic style.

Notable Works and Legacy

, a painting showcasing Hansen's skill in capturing the essence of Danish art history.
, a sensuous and erotic work that celebrates Woman’s anatomy, reflecting the Danish Golden Age's focus on beauty.
Hansen's contributions to the University of Copenhagen's vestibule on Frue Plads, which he decorated with mythological figures from 1844 to 1853.

Museums and Collections

Discover more about Constantin Hansen's work at:

Thorvaldsens Museum, Copenhagen, Denmark, which features works by Bertel Thorvaldsen and other Danish artists.
Constantin Hansen's profile on Wikioo.org, showcasing his notable paintings and artistic style.

Conclusion

Constantin Hansen, a prominent figure in the Golden Age of Danish Painting, left an indelible mark on the art world with his captivating works. Through his travels and inspirations, he contributed to the rich cultural heritage of Denmark, which can be explored further through Wikioo.org.

Wikipedia link: Click Here