In a resplendent union of history, heritage, and high fashion, Queen Mary of Denmark swept into Frederiksborg Castle to unveil Danner af Danmark, an exhibition as arresting as it is intimate. Like a scene from a modern fairytale, the Australian-born queen—graceful, articulate, and dressed in understated sophistication—paid homage to one of Denmark’s most intriguing women: Countess Danner, the commoner who married a king and changed the story of womanhood in the Danish monarchy forever.
The exhibition, housed within the Baroque splendor of the castle’s gilded halls, traces the life of Louise Rasmussen, later Countess Danner, a former ballet dancer and milliner who defied 19th-century convention to wed King Frederik VII. But this isn’t just a tale of romance. It is a nuanced exploration of class, courage, and the quiet power of a woman determined to forge her own destiny.
But leave it to Queen Mary to elevate the moment with a sartorial statement that echoed through the corridors of time. In an exquisite nod to the woman being honored, Mary wore a pair of Countess Danner’s original earrings, a breathtaking trio of pearl, amethyst, and topaz, not seen in public for over 165 years. On loan from Rosenborg Castle, they featured intricate lead detailing and a pretty drop stone.
What Queen Mary wore to Open the ‘Danner of Denmark’ exhibition
- Prada Elbow-Sleeve Blouse – Repeat
- Mark Kenly Domino Tan Nord Skirt – Repeat
- Paul Smith Floral Silk Scarf – Repeat
- Countess of Danner Pearl, Amethyst and Topaz earrings – On Loan
- Gucci Eyewear Cat-Eye Glasses – Repeat
- Rebekka Notkin Ribbon Diamond Bracelet – Repeat
- Rebekka Notkin Cuff Bracelet – Repeat
- Dulong Fine Jewelry Esme Bracelet with Diamonds – Repeat
- Carlend Copenhagen Vanessa Crocodile Clutch – Repeat
- Gianvito Rossi Ascent Pumps – Repeat
In connection with the special exhibition, The Queen participates in a new exhibition film, where the Queen unfolds the life story of the Respiratory History of the Danish Green Party through a series of the personal and historical objects of the Countess. In her remarks, Queen Mary reflected on Countess Danner’s legacy as more than a royal curiosity: “She used her voice and her position to protect women and children. She was ahead of her time. And still, she speaks to ours.”
Indeed, Danner’s philanthropic impact lives on. Her establishment of the Danner House, a shelter for women and children, was a landmark act of social progressiveness in the 1800s—and remains one of the strongest symbols of Denmark’s commitment to equality. The Danner af Danmark exhibition runs from May 1 to November 16, 2025, inviting the public not only to view history—but to feel it, reimagine it, and perhaps, find their own reflection within it.
As visitors stroll past oil portraits, delicate love letters, and personal artifacts, they are transported into a world where social mobility was radical and feminine autonomy—nearly revolutionary. The scent of polished wood mingles with that of fresh florals arranged in homage throughout the rooms, while Queen Mary’s narration in the exhibition’s accompanying documentary brings Louise’s journey to life with poetic restraint and dignity.
What Queen Mary wore in the ‘Danner of Denmark’ Exhibition Film
- Soeren Le Schmidt dress – Repeat
- Beige shawl – Repeat
- Ole Lynggaard Love Bands Curved Rings in Gold and Silver – Repeat
- Gianvito Rossi Gianvito 105 Pumps – Repeat