This fine 19th-century portrait by Danish artist Frederik Vermehren (1823-1910) depicts Etatsraad Hans Lytzen Albeck (1832-1918), a wholesaler from Copenhagen. It’s dated 1872 when Albeck was 40.

Vermehren was a master of detailed portraiture that captured a subject’s characteristics. We’ve discovered a photograph of Albeck and the likeness is impressive. In the 1870s, gentlemen were encouraged to dress ‘quietly’ with little in the way of flamboyance. So instead, the gents focused on their ‘mutton chops’, which could extend below the chin - akin to spaniels’ ears. The aim was to convey a sense of authority in a time of increasing industrialisation.

Hans Lytzen Albeck ran the family business, C E Albeck & Son's, which he inherited from his father. He was recognised by the King who awarded him the honour of ‘Councillor of State’ or ‘Etatsråd’ so he clearly succeeded in his endeavours. Perhaps he was also a keen philanthropist.

The portrait bears a label from Charlottenborg Palace dating to 1965 - a retrospective exhibition.

Housed in a gilt frame.

Learn more about Frederik Vermehren in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 25½” x 30” / 65cm x 76cm
Year of creation: 1872
Condition: Areas of inpainting. Minor losses but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £13,562 achieved for an oil painting in 2006.