Pause for a moment and consider this regal figure on horseback. This is the Equestrian statue of Frederik VII. It stands here to commemorate a pivotal moment in Danish history. The statue immortalizes King Frederik VII.
Let’s delve into the story behind this impressive monument. The Equestrian statue of Frederik VII was not crafted by just one artist. Herman Wilhelm Bissen began the work. His son Vilhelm Bissen completed it posthumously in 1873.
The statue honors King Frederik VII’s key role. He guided Denmark from absolute monarchy to a constitutional one. In 1848, Frederik ascended the throne. He became Denmark’s ninth absolute monarch since 1660.
However, times were changing. On March 21, 1848, a large demonstration took place. Ten thousand people gathered. They demanded a new government and democratic reforms. King Frederik VII listened to his people. He agreed to their demands. The Constitution of Denmark was signed on June 5, 1849.
The Equestrian statue of Frederik VII stands as a testament to this transition. The statue depicts Frederik VII on horseback. He wears a long coat. Look closely at the granite plinth. It features bronze plaques on all sides.
The front plaque bears a gilt oak wreath. Gilt letters spell out “5/IUNI/1849”. The left-hand bronze plate displays Frederik VII’s motto. It reads: “FOLKETS KIÆRLIGHED/MIN STYRKE”. This translates to “The people’s love, my strength”.
The inscription on the right-hand side is also significant. It states: “FREDERIK D: SYVENDE/GRUNDLOVENS GIVER”. This means “Frederik the Seventh, granter of the constitution”. The rear inscription provides biographical details. It reads: “FØDT 1808./KONGE 1848./DØD 1863.” This tells us he was born in 1808, became king in 1848, and died in 1863.
Carl Ploug chaired a committee. This committee initiated the statue’s creation. They wanted to honor the monarch’s role. His role ensured Denmark’s shift to constitutional monarchy. Funding came from various sources. The Danish state contributed. The City of Copenhagen helped. Private donations also played a part.
Herman Wilhelm Bissen designed the statue. Parisian bronze casters cast it. They worked at Vilhelm Bissen’s workshop at Carlsberg. The monument was unveiled on October 6, 1873. Interestingly, the statue survived the fire. The fire destroyed the second Christiansborg Palace in 1894.
So, as you stand before the Equestrian statue of Frederik VII, remember its history. It represents a king who listened to his people. He ushered in an era of democracy. The statue serves as a lasting reminder of Denmark’s transition. It is a transition from absolute rule to a government. A government accountable to its citizens.