Ferdinand Hernlund - Sunset Over a Meadow

Ferdinand Hernlund (1837-1902) Sweden

Sunset Over a Meadow

oil on canvas
signed Ferd. Hernlund
unframed 37x48 cm 
framed 54x67 cm.

Essay:

We are delighted to present an exquisite painting by the Swedish artist Ferdinand Hernlund, depicting a serene sunset over a lush, flower-dotted meadow. This captivating work is a quintessential example of Hernlund’s mastery in capturing the poetic beauty of nature.

Description of the Painting

The artwork beautifully portrays a tranquil summer evening. The sun is setting behind a line of trees, casting a warm, golden glow across the meadow. The sky is awash with hues of orange, pink, and soft purple, typical of a glorious sunset. The meadow in the foreground is rich with verdant grass, scattered with delicate wildflowers, adding a touch of vibrant life to the scene. A small stream winds its way through the grass, reflecting the colors of the sky, leading the viewer's eye deeper into the painting.

The Artist

Born on August 17, 1837, in Eksjö, Sweden, Ferdinand Hernlund was a distinguished painter and illustrator known for his lyrical and warm depictions of Swedish landscapes, particularly from regions like Kalmar, Kolmården, and the Östgötaslätten.

From an early age, Hernlund showed artistic talent, creating cityscapes of Eksjö as early as 1850. His formal art education included studies in Stockholm under the guidance of Per Daniel Holm and further refinement of his skills in European art centers like Düsseldorf, Karlsruhe, and Munich.

Hernlund's primary residence was in Stockholm, though he often traveled to capture the diverse and picturesque Swedish countryside. His works were regularly exhibited at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts, where he was elected a member in 1887. Beyond his painting career, he contributed as an illustrator for notable works such as "Svenska folksägner" by Herman Hofberg and "Vårt land" by Gustaf Fahlcrantz.

Hernlund’s art is well-represented in several prestigious collections, including the Nationalmuseum, Kalmar Museum, and the Linköping Art Museum.