Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

Den hollandske flåde under admiral Opdam passerer Sundet d. 29. oktober 1658 under Svenskekrigen 1657-60 by Frederik Christian Lund

Frederik Christian Lund · 1872-01-01

Frederik Christian Lund's 1872 painting, *Den hollandske flåde under admiral Opdam passerer Sundet d. 29. oktober 1658 under Svenskekrigen 1657-60* (The Dutch Fleet under Admiral Opdam Passing the Sound on 29 October 1658 during the Swedish War 1657-60), captures a critical moment in Danish history. Held at the Statens Museum for Kunst, it showcases the artist's dedication to historical accuracy and detail.

The painting depicts Dutch forces passing Kronborg Castle to aid Denmark against Sweden during the Dano-Swedish War. Observe the meticulous rendering of the soldiers' uniforms and the focused expressions of the cannon crew, conveying the gravity of the impending naval engagement.

Lund, known for documenting traditional Danish costumes, applied his observational skills to this historical scene late in his career. The work reflects the strategic importance of the Øresund strait and the human element within a broader military conflict.

This painting invites us to reflect on moments where nations stood united in adversity, brought to life through a painter's dedicated eye. What details draw your attention most?

Details

In 1872, he depicted a pivotal 1658 naval battle, from the Danish perspective.
In 1872, he depicted a pivotal 1658 naval battle, from the Danish perspective.
Dutch forces sail to help Denmark against Sweden in the Dano-Swedish War.
Dutch forces sail to help Denmark against Sweden in the Dano-Swedish War.
Here, soldiers prepare to defend Kronborg Castle, at the strait's narrowest point.
Here, soldiers prepare to defend Kronborg Castle, at the strait's narrowest point.
The artist carefully captured the period's military attire and tension.
The artist carefully captured the period's military attire and tension.
His commanding presence and rich attire suggest he is a figure of importance, possibly Admiral Opdam himself.
His commanding presence and rich attire suggest he is a figure of importance, possibly Admiral Opdam himself.
Transcript

This painter was known for documenting Danish history and costumes. In 1872, he depicted a pivotal 1658 naval battle, from the Danish perspective. Dutch forces sail to help Denmark against Sweden in the Dano-Swedish War. Here, soldiers prepare to defend Kronborg Castle, at the strait's narrowest point. The artist carefully captured the period's military attire and tension. Notice the officer's focused gaze, a quiet moment before the chaos.