Students Leave to Defend Copenhagen in 1658 by Kristian Zahrtmann. A moody oil portrait of a man in 17th-century attire, wearing a broad-brimmed black hat and white collar while holding a musket.

Students Leave to Defend Copenhagen in 1658

Kristian Zahrtmann

1888 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A striking 19th-century character study of a student soldier, captured in rich, dark tones with masterful brushwork.

$129

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3 frame sizes

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Where it works

A substantial, grounding work with softened warm notes — holds a formal wall with confidence.

Often works in
Library · Study · Living Room
Placement
Strongest where a vertical wall can take more presence
Walls
Benefits from light or mid-tone surroundings
Color notes
Charcoal black, Rich brown

About the piece

This 1888 oil study by Danish artist Kristian Zahrtmann depicts a student volunteer preparing to defend Copenhagen during the siege of 1658. The work is characterized by its dramatic use of chiaroscuro, highlighting the determined expression of the subject against a deep, atmospheric background, making it a quintessential example of historical character portraiture.