Paper short abstract:

This paper explores the communicative strategy in a series of historical paintings from the end of the 18th century in Denmark-Norway. I will discuss the paintings' moral examples and their connection to changing ideals in society. How could the tableau strengthen the rule of the Oldenburg dynasty?

Paper long abstract:

In 1778-91 the artist Nicolai Abildgaard created a series of historical paintings for the Great Hall at Christiansborg Castle in Copenhagen. Through ten large canvases, this series of paintings presents the virtues and good deeds of the Oldenburg dynasty. The goal of the series was to strengthen the power and rule of the absolutist regime. In the paintings, the kings are surrounded by famous men from their regime. Through moral lessons in patriotism, public spirit, and faithfulness to the king each painting presents moral examples of social conduct. To convey these moral messages Abildgaard used a communicational strategy, widely known in the latter part of the 18th-century, called the tableau. The tableau brought the didactic message to life through idealized moments that the spectator should grasp instantly. All of the paintings present the viewer with moments that are densified, containing both the past and the future, that the spectator could perceive at a glance. The tableau was tied to a common idea of "good taste" and morality and a type of aesthetic discourse aimed at a spectator who was to emulate the examples. This communicational strategy should be seen in connection with the intended audience of the paintings and the revitalization of the absolutist regime. In this paper I will discuss how this communicative strategy invites the viewer to emulation. How could this communicative strategy strengthen the rule of the Oldenburg dynasty?