Sermon on the Mount

Bloch’s inclusion of various believers who have gathered to hear Jesus’ words allows us to view this religion through a contemporary lens. The humble and poor look on in adoration; some clasp their hands in hope. Their daily tasks are forgotten as they lay aside their baskets, water jugs, and staff. Some look interested but skeptical. The bearded man behind Christ’s figure, who appears to consider and reflect on His words, may well be a self-portrait of Bloch. The young girl in the gold robe and mantle carefully attempts to capture the butterfly that has landed on the woman’s white veil.

This Danish painter's early work featured rural scenes from everyday life. From 1859 to 1866, Bloch lived in Italy, and this period was important for the development of his historical style. He was  commissioned to produce 23 paintings for the Chapel at Frederiksborg Palace. These were all scenes from the life of Christ which have become very popular as illustrations. The originals, painted between 1865 and 1879, are still at Frederiksborg Palace. 

Bloch's principal work is the series of 23 paintings with scenes from the New Testament that the brewer J.C. Jacobsen (1811-1887) of Carlsberg commissioned in 1865 as decorations for King Christian IV's (1577-1648) prayer seat in Frederiksborg Chapel.

This painting is oil on copper, measures 104 x 92 cm. ( 40.9” x 36.2” inches) and is in Frederiksborg Slot, Hillerød.

This work is linked to Matthew 5 – 7