PAINTING PALACE
Source Supplier of Oil Paintings

Carl Heinrich Bloch was born into the family of a prosperous merchant. At an early age he displayed exceptional artistic talent. In order to encourage this talent, Bloch entered into studies at the Royal Academy of Art in Copenhagen. He enjoyed his studies and gained recognition for his work.

As he matured, he sought a broader influence for his development. He went to Holland and France to further his artistic education. The works of Rembrandt were of special interest to him.

At age twenty-five he found himself in Rome, a hub of European artistic learning. Bloch eagerly accepted the ambience of this centuries-old culture. He was greatly influenced by the masterworks of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. This influence is evident in many of his paintings throughout his productive career.

Bloch studied in Rome for about six years. Afterwards, he returned to his Danish homeland where he lived for the remainder of his life.

On his return home in 1865, Bloch received a prestigious commission to paint a series of paintings for the National Historical Museum at the Frederiksborg Castle. The castle had experienced a fire several years before, and the chapel required new artwork. Calling on his broad experience and his deep appreciation for religious subjects, Bloch produced his famous 'Life of Christ' over a period of fourteen years. These twenty-three masterworks present the story of the Savior from the Annunciation to the Resurrection.

The production of these works, along with other religious and historical art brought Bloch much fame. He taught for years at the Academy of Art where he influenced many young artists. Bloch also displayed his genius in his etchings, and received much acclaim for his accomplishments in this medium.

His family life was also full and prosperous. He and his wife, Alma Trepka, were the parents of eight children.

Bloch died in 1890, a relatively young man. However, he left behind a legacy of great masterworks that stand as a monument to his artistic genius, as well as his sensitivity to the deep spiritual and emotional qualities of the life that surrounded him.

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