Early Life, Family and Training Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 8 October 1844, Peter Alfred Schou grew up in a family of merchants. His brother, Ludvig Abelin Schou, was also part of this merchant household. While his family roots were tied to trade, Schou’s path was not immediately set on the canvas. Following the lead of his father, he initially looked toward the world of business and attended a trade school to prepare for a life o…