Carl Heinrich Bloch (1834–1890) was a renowned Danish painter, celebrated for his deeply emotional and masterfully crafted religious works. Born in Copenhagen, Bloch studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, where he was mentored by Wilhelm Marstrand. He spent several formative years in Italy, where he absorbed the influence of Renaissance masters like Raphael and Michelangelo, refining his skills in depicting historical and biblical scenes.
Bloch’s most famous works are a series of 23 paintings commissioned for the Frederiksborg Palace Chapel, illustrating key moments from the life of Christ. These pieces, such as "The Sermon on the Mount" and "Christ Healing the Sick at Bethesda," exemplify his ability to blend realism with spiritual depth. His dramatic use of light and shadow, inspired by Rembrandt, gave his work a powerful emotional resonance.
Though primarily known for his religious art, Bloch also painted genre scenes and portraits. His legacy endures through his profound influence on Christian art, particularly in the United States, where his works have been widely reproduced. Carl Bloch passed away in 1890, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world of religious painting.