Produkte

Arthur Percy (1886-1976) Sweden 

Scandinavian Winter Landscape, 1907

oil on canvas
signed and dated A.Carlson-Percy 07
canvas dimensions 33.5 x 51.5 cm
frame 44.5 x 62 cm

Inscription on a board that the canvas was previous mounted on:Vy över gamla kyrkan, sedd från "Villa Bo" (today mounted on a new canvas stretcher without the board) 

Essay:
Introducing "Scandinavian Winter Landscape, 1907" a mesmerizing painting by the artist Arthur Percy Carlsson, later known as Arthur C:son Percy (1886-1976). Born in Vickleby, Öland, Percy's artistic journey was one defined by unwavering determination and exceptional talent.

This landscape painting presents a winter landscape, likely set during the early spring season. The canvas portrays a vast, snow-filled meadow, blanketed in pristine white. Above, the sky comes alive in a captivating pointillist style, with hues of blue, turquoise, and yellow forming delicate, scattered dots, while small clouds grace the horizon.

The scene unfolds with an enchanting backdrop of a distant forest, its trees adorned with a touch of winter's charm. Between the enchanting forest and the expansive meadow, a few humble houses grace the canvas. An inscription on the back suggests that these charming structures could be old church buildings, adding an intriguing historical dimension to the artwork. The inscription reads "Vy över gamla kyrkan, sedd från 'Villa Bo'," translating to "View of the old church, seen from 'Villa Bo'."

Painted with meticulous attention to detail and a captivating use of colors, this artwork transports viewers into a serene world of tranquility and beauty. The warm, subtle glow of the spring light envelops the landscape, evoking a sense of calm and wonder, as if capturing a fleeting moment of natural grace.

Beyond the captivating painting, the artist Arthur Percy, was a prodigious talent who left an indelible mark on both the world of fine arts and design. At the age of 17, Percy began his artistic journey as an assistant to a decorative painter in Stockholm. Despite facing financial constraints, his passion and talent earned him a place at the esteemed Konstnärsförbundets skola (Artists' Association School).

Percy's artistic pursuits continued to blossom, and he became an integral part of the influential artist group "De unga" or "1909 års män," whose groundbreaking 1909 exhibition marked a significant step towards Swedish modernism. Eager to expand his artistic horizons, Percy and some of his fellow students embarked on a journey to Paris in 1908, where they were immersed in a vibrant art scene, encountering renowned masters such as Henri Matisse, Gauguin, Bracque, and Picasso. The late Cezanne also served as a significant source of inspiration for Percy.

While his accomplishments in design were commendable, Arthur Percy always considered himself first and foremost a painter. He ardently devoted the majority of his time to his passion for the fine arts, producing many work that captured the essence of nature and the spirit of his time.

This painting "Scandinavian Winter Landscape, 1907," serves as a testament to Arthur Percy's extraordinary talent and artistic vision. Its enchanting portrayal of a winter wonderland perfectly encapsulates the essence of his artistic prowess.

Provenance: 
A private collection Linköping, Sweden. 

Arvid Jacobsson (Jacobson) (1881-1966) Sweden

Birch Forest, Karlberg, 1909

oil on canvas
canvas dimensions 52.5 x 36 cm
frame 61.5 x 45 cm

Essay: 
Painted in 1909, this artwork depicts a scene from Karlberg, located on Kungsholmen (Stockholm). The focal point is a majestic birch forest, with tall and graceful birch trees. The tops of the birches form soft, rounded lines against the blue sky, reminiscent of Otto Hesselbom's technique.

In the background, a denser forest emerges, adding depth to the composition. The blue sky holds a single, delicate cloud, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the painting.

Arvid Jacobsson's skillful brushwork brings this birch forest to life, capturing the beauty and tranquility of the scene. The artist's meticulous attention to detail and ability to create harmonious compositions shine through in this painting.

Condition: 
The canvas is upholstered on a new canvas stretcher, surface cleaned in 2023. Some small retouching is visible with the naked eye. Frame from 2023 included. 

ARVID JACOBSSON (JACOBSON) (1881–1966) SWEDEN

ST ERIKSBRON SEEN FROM STADSHAGEN, 1908

signerad och daterad arvid Jacobson 1908
mixed media
framed 46 x 40.5
unframed c. 34 x 28.5 cm

Essay:

This enchanting painting by Arvid Jacobsson (Jacobson)(1881–1966), executed in 1908, offers a captivating view of St. Eriksbron as seen from Stadshagen on Kungsholmen. Jacobsson has beautifully captured the essence of early 20th-century Stockholm, a period of significant urban development and transformation.

The focal point of this artwork is the old St. Eriksbron, a bridge that was inaugurated in 1906, featuring its distinctive arches. This bridge not only serves as a crucial link between Kungsholmen and Vasastaden but also marks the boundary between Barnhusviken and Karlbergssjön. The original bridge, a combination of truss and arch structures spanning a length of 226.8 meters, was pivotal in connecting the disjointed parts of Sankt Eriksgatan.



Stadshagen, the area from which this view is depicted, is situated in the northwest part of Kungsholmen and has a rich history dating back to the 1600s. Initially serving as grazing land for the city, the area evolved over centuries from agricultural fields to a hub for industrial activities, including a cotton mill and a sugar refinery in the 19th century. By the late 19th century, due to housing shortages, it became a makeshift home for the city's poor, transforming in the 20th century into a residential area with one of Stockholm's oldest allotment garden associations, Karlbergs-Bro koloniförening, established in 1909.

St. Eriksbron itself has undergone significant changes over the years. The original structure was replaced in the mid-1930s by a steel girder bridge, retaining only four of its original seven spans visible today. This transformation was part of Stockholm's urban development, accommodating the city's first two-story bridge in 1944 to include a lower level for the future subway. The bridge once carried the major European route E4, emphasizing its importance in Stockholm's infrastructure.

Jacobsson's painting not only captures a moment in Stockholm's urban development but also preserves the memory of a landscape on the brink of transformation. The juxtaposition of the natural beauty of Stadshagen with the industrial and architectural advancements embodied by St. Eriksbron offers a unique glimpse into Stockholm's past, making this artwork a significant piece of cultural heritage.

August Hagborg (1852-1921) Sweden

Quiet Contemplation, c. 1910-20

watercolor on paper
unframed 13.4 x 9.8 inches (34 x 25 cm)
framed 17.7 x 14.2 inches (45 x 36 cm)

Provenance:
A Swedish private collection.

Essay:
The artwork we present is a rare watercolor by the distinguished Swedish artist August Hagborg, painted in the later part of his career between 1910 and 1920. This watercolour is a departure from Hagborg's often-seen beach scenes with mussel pickers and instead offers a glimpse into a serene, pastoral moment. The scene is set against a timber house, with a man and a woman standing alongside, their gazes directed away from the viewer, which invites contemplation about the story behind their distant stares.

Watercolors by Hagborg are rare, making this piece particularly special. Its fine details suggest a mastery of the medium, likely honed over the years of his extensive career. A written letter from Göteborgs Konstmuseum, dated to the 1940s, suggests a later date for this piece.

August Hagborg, born on May 26, 1852, in Gothenburg and passed away on April 30, 1921, in Paris, was a renowned figure in the art world. His education at the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts in Stockholm from 1871 to 1874 placed him among peers who would rise to prominence, such as Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn. Moving to Paris in the fall of 1875, Hagborg initially painted within the costume genre before finding his niche in coastal landscapes that garnered him accolades and recognition.

Hagborg's success was punctuated by his 1879 painting "Low Water at the English Channel," which won a medal and secured his position as an artist of note. He continued to paint scenes from the Swedish coasts during his summer visits and later from Dalarna after 1914. His travels outside France were limited, but he did visit Devon, England, in 1884 and Italy later in life.

Honoured with a knighthood in the Order of Vasa in 1883 and as a Commander Second Class of the Order of the North Star in 1908, Hagborg's work is represented in major museums such as the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm and Musée d'Orsay in Paris.

Axel Axelsson (Axelson) (1854-1892) Sweden

A Day in Venice, 1892

oil on canvas
signed and dated 
unframed 24 x 14 cm (9.45 x 5.51 inches)
framed 28 x 18.5 cm (11.02 x 7.28 inches)

Essay: 

This captivating painting by Axel Axelsson (1854-1892), titled "A Day in Venice, 1892", illustrates a moment in Venice in the year 1892. Within the compact dimensions of 24 x 14 cm, Axelson masterfully captures the tasks of daily life in Venice during that time. The scene is centered around a woman drawing water from a well, surrounded by chickens pecking at the ground, which adds a touch of liveliness to the painting. The background features a hanging lamp with blue glass, while a staircase leads the viewer's eye upwards, hinting at unseen spaces and stories beyond.

The courtyard setting is rich with detail: wooden shutters slightly ajar in the upper windows, with laundry hanging to dry, whispering tales of the lives within. A birdcage placed between the windows serves as a charming detail.
Despite the painting's modest size, Axelson's skill in capturing details and atmosphere is evident, showcasing his expertise in architectural and interior motifs.

Axelsson's journey as an artist took him across Europe and North Africa after his studies at the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts between 1872 and 1876. Primarily focusing on architectural motifs and church interiors, his works often feature scenes from Venice, Rome, and the Rhine region. His participation in the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts' exhibitions in 1885 and 1887, and his connection to the Lill-Jans artist circle—mentioned in August Strindberg's novel "The Red Room"—highlighting that he was an important artist of his time, unfortunately he is today almost forgotten. 

Axelsson's paintings are held in prestigious collections such as the National Museum in Stockholm, Norrköping's Art Museum, and the Gothenburg Museum of Art. 

Axel Fahlcrantz (1851-1925) Sweden

Summer Evening at Vanadisvägen, Stockholm

oil on wood panel
signed A.Fahlcrantz Stockholm
unframed 21 x 35 cm
framed 32.5 x 45.5 cm

Provenance: 
Fritzes Kungl. Hovbokhandel, Stockholm;
Acquired 1947 by Eline Allan Beskow;
Gift 1991 to Ann Beskow

Essay:

Axel Fahlcrantz’s "Summer Evening at Vanadisvägen, Stockholm" captures a serene sunset over the Vanadisvägen street in central Stockholm. The painting showcases Fahlcrantz's masterful use of color and light, creating a peaceful and evocative scene. This piece, known in Swedish as "Sommarafton vid Vanadisvägen, Stockholm" beautifully illustrates the tranquil atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape.

The Artist
Axel Fahlcrantz (September 5, 1851 - November 14, 1925) was a celebrated Swedish landscape painter, hailing from a family with deep artistic roots. His father, Christian Eric Fahlcrantz, was a bishop and writer, and his uncles were both prominent in the arts: Carl Johan Fahlcrantz was a landscape painter, and Axel Magnus Fahlcrantz was a sculptor and court carver. His brother, Carl Johan Fahlcrantz, was a notable book publisher who founded the Fahlcrantz & Co publishing house in 1877.
Fahlcrantz initially pursued studies to become a sculptor at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts from 1874 to 1876 but later shifted his focus to landscape painting under the mentorship of Per Daniel Holm and Edvard Perséus. He was elected a member of the Royal Academy of Free Arts in 1907, reflecting his significant contributions to Swedish art.

 

Fahlcrantz is renowned for his landscapes that often feature water and express the dramatic effects of weather. His paintings are distinguished by their atmospheric qualities, often depicting scenes of mist, twilight, and moonlight. He had a particular talent for capturing the moods of nature, whether it be a calm evening or an impending storm.

Fahlcrantz's works are well-represented in several prestigious collections, including the Gothenburg Museum of Art, the National Museum in Stockholm, and the Norrköping Art Museum.

 

Axel Olson (1899-1986) Sweden

Colorful Landscape by the Cliff, c. 1935

gouache paper mounted on board
signed Acke O
unframed 23.9 x 30.2 cm (9.41 x 11.89 inches)
framed 40 x 46 cm (ca 15.75 x 18.11 inches)

Provenance: 
A gift on the engagement day of Sjunne Mårtensson and Gerda Nilsson in 1935, from the staff of Elverket. 

Essay:

This painting, created around 1935, showcases Axel Olson's experimentation with surrealism during the 1930s. Executed with a technique reminiscent of pointillism, the artwork captures a serene yet subtly whimsical landscape. Olson, drawing inspiration from his immediate surroundings, depicts a steep cliff adorned with a fence at its summit, and a wheelbarrow situated amidst a mosaic of vivid colors and textures. The painting's pointillist approach, marked by carefully placed dots of gouache, imbues the scene with a dynamic and almost dreamlike quality.

The Artist: 

Axel Olson, born on October 22, 1899, in Halmstad, Sweden, was a painter, draftsman, and graphic artist. He was an influential member of the Halmstad Group, a collective known for its contribution to surrealist and modernist art in Sweden. Olson's artistic journey began in 1915 when he co-founded the group "Gnistan" with his brother Erik Olson and cousin Waldemar Lorentzon. He made his exhibition debut in Halmstad in 1919, which led to a significant connection with Gösta Adrian-Nilsson.

In the early 1920s, Olson traveled across Italy and Germany to refine his craft, eventually settling in Berlin in 1923 to study under the avant-garde sculptor Alexander Archipenko. His time in Berlin exposed him to the leading movements of the European avant-garde, including Cubism, Futurism, and Constructivism.

Upon returning to Halmstad in 1924, Olson founded and taught at the "De unga" group with Sven Jonson and Esaias Thorén. He also worked as a commercial artist to support himself. By 1929, he had co-founded the Halmstad Group, which played a pivotal role in the Swedish surrealist movement. Olson’s works during the 1930s increasingly embraced surrealism, often drawing from everyday scenes and incorporating recurring motifs such as plows and anchors.

Throughout his career, Olson participated in numerous significant exhibitions, including one in London in 1937. The onset of World War II profoundly impacted his work, resulting in notable pieces like "Hamn" and "Svart kväll" (1940). In the 1940s, he joined the Söndrum Colony, a collective of artists that included Sven X Erixson and other members of the Halmstad Group.

In 1948, Olson visited Paris, where he encountered non-figurative French art, influencing his style towards a lighter palette during the early 1950s. Despite suffering from a severe eye condition in the 1970s, he continued to create, producing works inspired by the coastal landscapes of Halland.

His works are represented in institutions such as the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm, Hallands Konstmuseum, Norrköpings Konstmuseum.

Axel Zachrison (1884 - 1944) Sweden 

Landscape from Dalsland, Sweden

oil on canvas
signed A.Zachrison
canvas dimensions 70 x 111 cm 
frame 77.5 x 118 cm

Essay:
Axel Zachrison was a Swedish painter known for his landscapes from Dalsland. Born in Tydje, Dalsland, Zachrison's artistic journey was shaped by his experiences at sea and his encounters with influential artists such as Otto Hesselbom, a relative on his mother's side.

This captivating landscape painting titled "Landscape from Dalsland, Sweden"  showcases Zachrison's artistic talent and his ability to capture the beauty of nature. The sky, painted in shades of white and gray, features distinct lines around the clouds add a sense of movement and depth to the scene, reminiscent of Hesselbom's painting technique. In the background, we can see some blue mountains, their majestic presence contributing to the overall sense of grandeur.

And In the left part, the viewer can see some land illuminated by the warm rays of the afternoon sun. The vibrant colors of orange, green, and yellow bring the landscape to life, infusing it with a sense of vitality and serenity. A shimmering body of water in the the center, reflecting the luminous white light and creating captivating mirror-like reflections.

The foreground of the painting consists of a darker forest area which skillfully framing the lower part of the composition. This deliberate contrast adds depth and visual interest to the artwork, drawing the viewer's attention to the enchanting scenery.

It's undated but likely executed in the 1920s, the painting carries an undeniable "wow" factor upon first sight. Zachrison's skillful brushwork and his masterful use of decorative color choices create a captivating and immersive experience for the viewer. His ability to evoke emotional responses through his art is a testament to his talent and artistic vision.

Zachrison studied under the guidance of renowned artist Carl Wilhelmson from 1921 to 1922. Additionally, he embarked on self-guided artistic expeditions to Italy and France.
These study trips allowed Zachrison to explore different techniques, expand his artistic horizons, and find inspiration in the masterpieces of renowned painters. Initially, Zachrison's artistic style closely followed that of his mentor, Otto Hesselbom. However, as he continued to evolve as an artist, he forged his own path and achieved success through his distinctive and decorative use of color. 

Axel Zachrison's "Landscape from Dalsland, Sweden" is a testament to his ability to capture the serene beauty of nature. This remarkable painting allows viewers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the depicted landscape, inviting them to contemplate the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. With his unique style and decorative color choices, Zachrison leaves a lasting legacy as a skilled and influential Swedish painter.

Axel Zachrison (1884 - 1944) Sweden 

View Over the Fields, c.1920

oil on canvas
signed A.Zachrison 
original gilt wooden frame included.
unframed: 33 x 41 cm (13 x 16.1 inches)
framed: 39 x 47 cm (15.4 x 18.5 inches)

Condition: 
The painting has recently been professionally cleaned, and the frame has undergone a careful review and preservation. The frame features an elegant aged patina, adding to its charm and authenticity. The artwork is in excellent condition and ready to be displayed on the wall.

Essay:
This evocative painting by Swedish artist Axel Zachrison captures a serene yet vibrant rural scene. The composition features a vast field bathed in the warm, intense hues of a setting sun. The rich texture of the brushstrokes adds depth and movement to the green fields, which contrast beautifully with the fiery reds and oranges of the sky. A small house or barn stands in the distance, silhouetted against the glowing horizon, offering a poignant reminder of solitude and the passage of time.

The painting reflects Zachrison's mastery of color and atmosphere, qualities he honed during his studies under Carl Wilhelmson and his travels to Italy and France. Known for his depictions of Dalsland's landscapes and water views, Zachrison created works that were both decorative and deeply expressive. This piece exemplifies his ability to blend simplicity with dramatic color contrasts.

Axel Zachrison, who spent his formative years as a sailor, discovered his passion for art during his seafaring days. Guided early on by his relative, the artist Otto Hesselbom, Zachrison pursued further studies under Carl Wilhelmson between 1921 and 1922 and enriched his artistic vision through travels to Italy and France. While initially influenced by Hesselbom, Zachrison developed his own distinctive style, characterized by dynamic compositions and bold use of color. He exhibited widely, with notable solo exhibitions in Åmål, Ed, and Vänersborg.

Bengt Nordenberg (1822-1902) Swedish

Winter Scene With Figures on the Ice

oil on canvas
signed and dated B. Nordenberg 18(4?)6
canvas size 10.90 x 13.89 inches (27.7 x 35.3 cm)
frame 16.73 x 19.68 inches (42.5 x 50 cm)

Bengt Nordenberg, born April 22, 1822 in Blekinge, Sweden and died December 18, 1902 in Düsseldorf, Germany. He is counted among the Düsseldorf school and is best known for his pictures of folklife with motifs taken from Sweden. Nordenberg has also depicted the life of the middle class and upper classes and painted church paintings and altarpieces. His paintings are represented at the National Museum in Stockholm, the Norrköping Art Museum and the Gothenburg Art Museum.
Nordenberg grew up in poverty and became an apprentice to a painter in Sölvesborg. In 1843 he was able to realize his desire to come to Stockholm and study at the Academy of Fine Arts.
This painting was probably patined during this period, around 1846, which shows early proof of his talent for painting landscapes.
In 1851, he went to Düsseldorf, where Theodor Hildebrandt and then Adolf Tidemand became his teacher.
In 1856 Nordenberg received a travel scholarship from the Swedish state and travelled to Paris, Düsseldorf and Rome. However, after Rome, he soon returned to Düsseldorf, where he settled for the rest of his life.

Bernhard Oscarsson (1894-1977) Swedish

View over Strandvägen, Stockholm

oil on canvas
signed and dated Oscarsson 1933
unframed 54 x 65 cm
framed 70 x 80 cm

Essay:
This painting by Bernhard Oscarsson (1894-1977) is a captivating visual narrative of Stockholm's serene beauty. Oscarsson, a student of Caleb Althin's painting school and the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, honed his craft extensively through his European travels in Spain, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Germany. This particular piece is painted from Blasieholmen, behind the National Museum, with his gaze set towards Strandvägen.

Oscarsson's canvas is a symphony of colors, with each brushstroke contributing to the overall harmony of the scene. The foreground is graced with the tranquil paths of Blasieholmen, lined with welcoming benches and a solitary lamp post standing as a silent sentinel. A solitary figure walks towards the bustling Strandvägen, perhaps lost in thought or simply enjoying the scenic view. The rich foliage on the left provides a stark contrast to the open skies, where soft clouds dance in the light of the setting sun.

The painting's palette is reminiscent of the transitional phase between late impressionism and early modernism, capturing the ephemeral quality of light and the subtle nuances of urban life. It embodies a sense of peace and reflection amidst the daily hum of a growing city. Oscarsson's work is more than a mere depiction of a location; it is a portal to the soul of Stockholm, offering a timeless glimpse into the city's heart through the eyes of an artist who both loved and understood his subject deeply.

Same view today, 90 years later: 

Bruno Liljefors (1860-1939) Sweden

Spring Landscape with Fence, Uppland

signed B.L
oil on wood panel "AB Wilh. Becker"
unframed: 32.1 x 42.5 cm (12 5/8 x 16 3/4 in)
framed: 41 x 51 cm (16 1/8 x 20 in)

Provenance:
Yrsa Krumlinde, born Liljefors (1909-1991), Linköping (Bruno och Signe Liljefors Daughter)  

Exhibited:
Liljevalchs Konsthall, Stockholm, "Bruno Liljefors. Memorial Exhibition," September 30–October 30, 1960, cat. no. 269.
Göteborgs Konstmuseum, "Anders Zorn / Bruno Liljefors. Memorial Exhibition," November 1960–January 1961, cat. no. 166.

Essay:
This atmospheric painting by Bruno Liljefors captures a serene Uppland landscape, featuring a traditional wooden fence—a motif that recurs throughout his artistic career. Liljefors painted fences from the early 1880s to the 1930s, often inspired by photographs he took himself, such as those preserved at the Uppsala Art Museum (inv. nos. KM00898287, KM00898292). These fences, known as "gärdesgårdar" in Swedish, traditionally demarcate cultivated land from the wild and hold a significant place in Swedish history, dating back to the Viking Age. The term derives from Old Swedish gärdhis gardher, meaning "enclosed area."

Bruno Liljefors was one of Sweden's most renowned nature painters, celebrated for his innovative depictions of wildlife and landscapes. His work often emphasized the dynamic interplay between animals and their environments, departing from the idyllic tradition of his contemporaries. His art is distinguished by a unique blend of impressionistic brushstrokes and meticulous attention to natural details, particularly in his bird studies.

Liljefors’ fascination with nature was rooted in his upbringing near Uppsala. His journey as an artist began at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, though he left after three years to explore more unconventional approaches. Travels to Düsseldorf, Oberbayern, and the artist colony at Grez-sur-Loing further shaped his style, incorporating influences from plein-air painting and Japanese woodblock prints.

This painting not only reflects Liljefors’ deep connection to the Swedish landscape but also his skill in portraying the quiet harmony between human-made structures and untouched nature. His works are housed in numerous prestigious collections, including the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm, Göteborgs konstmuseum, Thielska Galleriet, Kalmar konstmuseum, Norrköpings konstmuseum and Uppsala konstmuseum.