This early 19th-century oil painting depicts the Danish prime minister, Peter Georg Bang (1797-1861).

Despite rising to the highest echelons of society, Peter Georg Bang remained remarkably grounded in both his views and actions. Known for his directness, he was an uncomplicated man of simple pleasures who enjoyed breaking bread with the everyday people of Roskilde.

Following his education at Frederiksborg School, he trained as a lawyer and became an assessor at the Supreme Court. This was followed by a spell teaching Roman law at the University of Copenhagen, later becoming its bursar. 

In 1845, he took his first step into Government with a role at the Treasury and subsequently earned a spot in the cabinet when appointed as Minister of the Interior. Following the exit of Anders Sandøe Ørsted, he became the Prime Minister of Denmark, which capped quite a rise through the ranks.

As a leader, it’s said that he possessed superior administrative skills and a determination to complete tasks with diligence. What he lacked in refinement, he made up for in uncompromising delivery.

Inscribed on the reverse and held within a gilt 19th-century neo-classical revival frame, which is possibly original.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 27” x 32” / 68cm x 82cm
Year of creation: c. 1835
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed on reverse ‘Dr. jur. Peder Georg Bang f.1797 d.1861’.
Provenance: Private collection, Denmark.
Condition: Cleaned. Revarnished. Canvas relined. Craquelure in areas. The paint layer is stable. Frame with various marks and showing its age.
Our reference: BRV1964