In an extraordinary blend of royalty and artistry, a painting by Denmark’s former monarch, Queen Margrethe II, is set to captivate bidders at an upcoming auction. The 83-year-old queen, celebrated for her reign and prolific contributions to the art world, has featured her works in numerous exhibitions. However, the chance to own a piece of her artistic legacy is a rarity. The Bruun Rasmussen auction house, which will host the sale, highlighted the unique nature of this event, stating, “You now have the opportunity to acquire an exceptional – and not least royal – work of art.” With an estimated price range set between 75,000 and 100,000 Danish kroner ($11,000-$15,000), the painting, dating back to 1988, marks a significant year when Margrethe began to share her art with the world officially.
The artwork, a testament to Margrethe’s deep-seated inspiration from the natural world, is lauded for its lyrical expression and personal touch. Niels Boe-Hauggaard, a Modern & Contemporary Art specialist at Bruun Rasmussen, expressed excitement about the auction, recognizing it as a reflection of the queen’s “immense passion for and prolificacy within art and creative work.” The painting, originally a gift to the then Court Marshal, Hans Sølvhøj, has been preserved within his family, making its journey to the auction block momentous. The sale in early March in Copenhagen presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a piece directly linked to royal history and personal creativity.
Queen Margrethe’s artistic endeavours extend far beyond this single piece, with a lifelong commitment to various forms of creative expression, from painting and découpage to designing scenography and costumes. Her abdication after a 52-year reign marked the end of an era and the beginning of another, with her son, Frederik, ascending the throne as King Frederik X. This transition, while significant, does not overshadow Margrethe’s lasting impact on both the Danish monarchy and the broader artistic community.
The upcoming auction is more than just a sale; it celebrates Queen Margrethe II’s enduring legacy as a monarch and an artist. It offers a glimpse into the personal world of a figure who has spent a lifetime balancing the demands of royalty with a genuine passion for artistic creation. As this painting finds a new home, it will undoubtedly carry Denmark’s beloved queen’s stories, inspirations, and royal touch.
