Who painted Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens?

Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens was painted by Jens Juel in 1789.

Where can I see Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens?

Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens?

Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens is associated with Rococo painting.

Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens by Jens Juel (1789)

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays Johan Frederik Clemens, a Danish officer whose likeness is rendered with a dignified presence that underscores his status within 18th‑century elite society. The portrait’s composition emphasizes a calm, composed expression, reflecting ideals of virtue and civic responsibility that were valued among the era’s aristocracy. Its depiction of fine clothing and a poised posture serves as visual symbols of honor and professional achievement, encapsulating the subject’s role as both a military figure and a cultured gentleman.

Technique & Style

The work is an oil painting executed on canvas, depicting Johan Frederik Clemens in a formal portrait style characteristic of late 18th-century Danish art.

The work is an oil painting executed on canvas, depicting Johan Frederik Clemens in a formal portrait style characteristic of late 18th-century Danish art. The surface bears the handling and finish typical of Jens Juel's mature technique, with fine brushwork defining facial features and attire. The composition and rendering reflect the portrait genre, emphasizing realistic representation and dignified presence.

These formal qualities are evident in the measured proportions and restrained palette, aligning with the conventions of contemporary portraiture.

History & Provenance

Jens Juel painted Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens in 1777. The portrait, which depicts the copperplate engraver Johan Frederik Clemens, was executed in oil paint on canvas. Measuring 47 by 38.5 cm, the artwork is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

It was also included in the exhibition Fire danske klassikere: Nicolai Abildgaard, Jens Juel, Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg og Bertel Thorvaldsen.

The portrait of J.F. Clemens by Jens Juel is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst in Copenhagen. The work, created in 1777, is an oil painting on canvas measuring 47 cm in height and 38.5 cm in width. It was included in the exhibition titled "Fire danske klassikere: Nicolai Abildgaard, Jens Juel, Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg og Bertel Thorvaldsen."

Context

The portrait of Johan Frederik Clemens painted by Jens Juel in 1777 was exhibited alongside works by Nicolai Abildgaard, Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg, and Bertel Thorvaldsen in the 2013 exhibition Fire danske klassikere at Statens Museum for Kunst, highlighting its significance within Danish art history. The work remains part of the museum's permanent collection and exemplifies the neoclassical genre prevalent in late 18th-century Denmark.

Legacy

Jens Juel's 1777 portrait of Johan Frederik Clemens, commonly referred to as Kobberstikkeren J.F. Clemens, has been recognized as a significant example of Danish portraiture from the late 18th century. Its inclusion in exhibitions such as "Fire danske klassikere" underscores its role in shaping the narrative of Danish artistic heritage. The work remains part of the collection at Statens Museum for Kunst, where it contributes to ongoing scholarship on Jens Juel's artistic legacy.

Overview

Created in 1789 by the Danish portraitist Jens Juel, this oil painting depicts the engraver Johan Frederik Clemens. Executed in the late rococo idiom, the work is part of the permanent collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The composition presents Clemens in a three‑quarter view, his face illuminated against a muted green backdrop.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jens Juel

Jens Juel (12 May 1745 – 27 December 1802) was a Danish painter, primarily known for his many portraits, of which the largest collection is on display at Frederiksborg Castle.