The Lobby Frieze

A 268 metre long frieze in 'skønvirkestil', which was a Danish version of art nouveau or Jugendstil, runs throughout the Lobby between the Chamber and the former Landsting Hall. The frieze was painted by artist Rasmus Larsen using a fresco technique during the period 1918-1921, i.e. immediately after the Rigsdag had moved into the recently-built third Christiansborg Palace. The previous Christiansborg Palace burned down in 1884. The recurring theme is an intertwined flower motif, but the element that attracts particular attention is the artist's many, often very unflattering and caustic comments and references to political life in the Danish Parliament – comments that could be called political scenography. Some of the comments are popular adages and maxims, while others were purpose-written for the frieze. By all accounts, the artist was given a completely free hand to paint the frieze. Initially, some politicians probably took exception to the comments, but today they delight everybody who visits the Lobby.
© Folketinget
Photographer: Torben Eskerod