Engraving - Coat Of Arms Of Christin VII King Of Denmark And Norway - 18th Century

Original steel engraving on watermarked laid paper. Produced by Robert Bénard (1734-1777), a renowned 18th-century engraver known for his meticulous work in illustrating scientific and historical works, this polychrome engraving represents the royal coat of arms of Christian VII, King of Denmark and Norway (reign: 1766–1808). Heraldic description: The shield is divided into several quarters, it brings together the different royal possessions: Top left: the three golden leopard lions on azure of Denmark. Top right: the crowned lion brandishing a silver axe, symbolizing Norway. Bottom left: three golden crowns on azure, often interpreted as those of Sweden or the islands. Bottom right: probably symbols representing other possessions, such as the Duchy of Schleswig or Holstein. In the center: a red shield grouping several small symbols: a halberd, a swan and other secondary heraldic arms (notably the counties of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst). Supporters: two naked savages, draped in foliage, each holding a club. This traditional motif of the Scandinavian kingdoms represents primal and protective strength. Royal Crown: surmounting the shield is a large, closed crown, symbolizing absolute monarchical authority. Ermine Mantle: the whole is surrounded by a royal mantle lined with ermine and surmounted by a court sky surmounted by an ornate dome. Order of the Elephant: around the shield hangs the chain of the Order of the Elephant, Denmark's highest honor. The badge hangs below, depicting a white elephant caparisoned with a tower and a red cross. Christian VII was a mentally unstable monarch, whose reign was marked by the growing influence of his physician Johann Friedrich Struensee. Made by Robert Bénard (1734-1777), a renowned 18th century engraver, known for his meticulous work in illustrating scientific and historical works.Dimension(s): Frame: Height 20 cm – Width 21.5 cm – Width of baguette: 3 cm,Condition: PERFECT CONDITION,Era: 18th century,Frame: current quality mounting, composed of a gilded bevel, and a marie-louise in ecru wild silk. The whole is encircled by a wooden baguette with water gilding in aged gold.