Anders Wahlgren - Twilight Meadow with Moose

Anders Wahlgren (1861-1928) Sweden

Twilight Meadow with Moose

oil on canvas
unframed 41.5 x 65 cm
framed 57 x 81 cm

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection. 

Essay:
This serene and evocative painting by the Swedish artist Anders Wahlgren captures the quiet beauty of nature at dusk. The artwork depicts a tranquil meadow bathed in the soft, fading light of twilight. In the foreground, a gentle stream winds its way through the landscape, reflecting the last light of the day. In the distance, two majestic moose stand quietly, seemingly at peace in their natural habitat.

Wahlgren, born on February 15, 1861, in Lund, was not only a respected forest science researcher but also a gifted painter and illustrator. From a young age, he pursued his passion for art, studying under the guidance of Axel Hjalmar Lindqvist in Lund and later receiving artistic training from Anders Kallenberg during his time at the Forest Institute. His dedication to both his scientific and artistic endeavors led him on study trips, including a significant visit to Brittany and Paris in 1891, where he immersed himself in the art circles of Swedish painters and attended a Scandinavian art school led by Richard Hall.

Wahlgren's art is heavily influenced by his close friendship and mentorship under Bruno Liljefors, one of Sweden’s most renowned wildlife artists. Like Liljefors, Wahlgren's works often depict forest landscapes, with a particular focus on animals in their natural settings. His style reflects a deep respect for nature, capturing the delicate balance between light and shadow, and the peaceful coexistence of wildlife.

This particular piece, with its rich atmospheric quality and careful attention to detail, is a fine example of Wahlgren's work. His ability to convey the quiet majesty of the natural world is evident in the soft hues of the twilight sky and the stillness of the moose, making this painting a beautiful addition to any collection.