Carl Johansson - A Tranquil Landscape View, 1943

Carl Johansson (1863-1944) Sweden

A Tranquil Landscape View, 1943

oil on wood panel
signed and dated Carl Johansson 1943 -
panel dimensions: 41 cm x 55 cm (16.14 inches x 21.65 inches)
frame dimensions: 57 cm x 71 cm (22.44 inches x 27.95 inches)

Provenance: 
We acquired this piece from a private collection in Canada. 

Condition: 
Very good, newly restored by professional art conservator 2023, the pane is flat and stable. New frame from 2023 included. 

Essay: 
We are delighted to present a beautiful landscape painting by the Swedish artist Carl Johansson (1863-1944). Painted in 1943, during the latter part of his career, this piece showcases many of the elements that earned him the nickname 'Ultramarine Johansson'. The artwork prominently features a serene landscape with two trees in the foreground, their sprawling canopies occupying much of the painting's upper half, allowing glimpses of the sky through the leaves. A winding stream snakes its way through the middle ground, while rolling hills form a tranquil backdrop. The artist's fondness for blue hues is evident, with varying shades of blue defining the sky, water, and even the shadows amongst the foliage. This predilection for blue shades became a defining characteristic of Johansson’s later works, earning him his nickname.

Johansson employs short brushstrokes and a generous application of paint, giving the piece a rich texture and a vibrant, almost impressionistic quality. Although the exact location depicted in the painting remains uncertain, it is believed to represent the area around Sundsvall, a region familiar to the artist.

Carl Johansson’s journey as an artist began in the late 19th century and spanned several decades, during which his style evolved and matured. Initially influenced by the realism movement, his work gradually transitioned to incorporate elements of impressionism, as demonstrated by the short brushstrokes and liberal use of color in this piece. Despite the changes in his style, Johansson remained committed to capturing the beauty and essence of the Swedish landscape throughout his career.

This painting, along with another piece by Johansson, was acquired from a private collection in Canada. It represents an opportunity to own a work by an artist whose dedication to his craft and love for his homeland shines through in every brushstroke.