Wilhelm Marstrand

Vilhelm Nikolaj Marstrand (December 24, 1810-March 25, 1873), painter and illustrator, was born in Copenhagen, Denmark to Nicolai Jacob Marstrand, mechanic and inventor, and Petra Ottilia Smith. Marstrand is one of the best known artists belonging to the Golden Age of Danish Painting.

Travel to foreign lands

In spite of his not receiving the medallion, the Academy awarded him a travel stipend from its general fund. In August 1836 he began his travels, going by way of Germany to Rome, Italy, stopping on the way at Berlin, Dresden, Nuremberg and Munich. In Italy, where he stayed for four years, he painted many idealized depictions of daily life, especially festivities. He was very much taken by Italy and the life styles of the Italian people. He portrayed a colorful and joyous view of them, infused with a new found ideal of beauty.

Related Topics:
1836 - Germany - Rome - Italy - Berlin - Dresden - Nuremberg - Munich

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

He also painted a few portraits during this first stay in Italy. Among these are portraits of other travelling Danish artists, such as Christen Købke and travelling partner Johan Adolph Kittendorff. He also completed sketches for a large portrait of botanist and politician, J.F. Schouw, which would be later realized as a painting.

Related Topics:
Christen Købke - Johan Adolph Kittendorff

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~