View from the Citadel Ramparts in Copenhagen by Moonlight

Martinus Rørbye

Created:
Movement:
1839
Romanticism
key Notes:
Moonlit Landscape, Danish Romanticism
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Dimensions:
11 3/8 x 9 5/8 in. (28.9 x 24.4 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"View from the Citadel Ramparts in Copenhagen by Moonlight" is a painting created by Danish artist Martinus Rørbye in 1839. Rørbye is known for his contributions to Danish Romanticism, and this work exemplifies his interest in capturing atmospheric effects and the interplay of light and shadow. The painting depicts a nocturnal scene of Copenhagen, showcasing the city's architecture and landscape under moonlight. Rørbye's use of color and brushwork conveys a sense of tranquility and introspection. The work reflects the Romantic fascination with nature and the sublime, as well as the artist's personal connection to his surroundings. Rørbye's oeuvre includes landscapes and cityscapes, often infused with a sense of mood and emotion. The specific circumstances surrounding the creation of this painting are not well-documented. Today, the painting is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Denmark.

Description of the work:

"View from the Citadel Ramparts in Copenhagen by Moonlight," created by Martinus Rørbye in 1839, is an oil on canvas painting that captures a nocturnal scene of Copenhagen. The composition features the ramparts of the Citadel, rendered with a sense of depth and perspective. The moonlight casts a silvery glow over the landscape, illuminating the architecture and creating a contrast between light and shadow. The sky is depicted in deep blues and blacks, punctuated by the luminous moon, which serves as the focal point of the work. The foreground includes detailed representations of the ramparts, while the background reveals the cityscape, suggesting a tranquil yet dynamic urban environment. Rørbye's brushwork conveys a sense of atmosphere, enhancing the serene yet mysterious quality of the night scene. The overall palette is characterized by cool tones, contributing to the painting's contemplative mood.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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View from the Citadel Ramparts in Copenhagen by Moonlight