The Thief

A tale of crime, culture, and historical relics in early modern Denmark.

In 1802, Denmark’s arguably most famous thief broke into the Royal Danish Cabinet of Curiosities and stole the renowned Golden Horns, relics from the Germanic Iron Age. Niels Heidenreich, the son of a drunken parish clerk, melted down the horns, and they were forever lost. 

The Thief is a compelling narrative about the loss of national symbols, counterfeiters, poverty, and despair. At its heart, it offers a vivid portrait of the man who destroyed these historical relics, tracing his life and harsh living conditions, his brushes with the law, and his existence on society’s fringes. Spanning Danish history around the year 1800, The Thief provides a fascinating glimpse into a period of significant social and political change, while addressing universal themes of crime, justice, and cultural heritage. 

Ulrik Langen is a professor of eighteenth-century history at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. With a career dedicated to uncovering the nuanced stories of Denmark’s past, Langen is known for his meticulous research and engaging storytelling. Originally published in Danish in 2015 to rave reviews, The Thief is based on extensive archival study and showcases his ability to bring historical figures and events to life.