Produkte

Fritz Lindström (1874-1962) Sweden

Saltwater (Kullen) 1917

oil on board
signed and dated Fritz Lindström 1917
board dimensions 35 x 52 cm
frame 47 x 64.5 cm

Essay: 
In the world of classic art, few paintings encapsulate the raw power and tranquility of the sea as vividly as Fritz Lindström's "Saltwater (Kullen) 1917". Painted in the year 1917, this evocative piece transports viewers to the shores of Kullen, a peninsula near Höganäs, nestled between Helsingborg and Båstad. Kullen is renowned for its rocky shores, and this painting captures that rugged beauty flawlessly.

The composition showcases robust cliffs bathed in a kaleidoscope of blues, purples, and browns. They stand tall against the onslaught of powerful waves, their varied colors revealing the myriad hues that sunlight can cast upon rock and stone. This juxtaposition of solidity and fluidity is heightened by Lindström's use of brushwork. His rapid strokes, alternating between short and elongated, lend a sense of urgency and movement to the scene. One can almost hear the waves crashing, their white crests surging forward in a dance of nature's power.

Interestingly, while the sea rages with vigor, the sky above remains calm, suggesting good weather. This duality—of both chaos and serenity—is the essence of Kullen. A place where nature's forces converge, yet a sense of peace prevails.

Lindström, born in 1874 and having left an indelible mark in art till 1962, was not just a solitary genius but was also an active member of the Racksta group. His association with such a revered group of artists further cements his place in art history. They were known for their dedication to capturing the spirit and nuances of Scandinavian landscapes. And in "Saltwater (Kullen) 1917", Lindström's expertise is on full display.

This painting is not just a testament to Lindström's skill but also a tribute to Kullen, highlighting its timeless beauty and ever-resilient spirit. It stands as a testament to the genius of Fritz Lindström and the captivating allure of the Scandinavian coast.

Condition:
Very good, recently cleaned and new frame from 2023.

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection  

Gottfrid Kallstenius (1861-1943) Sweden

Silent Night, 1921

oil on canvas
signed and dated G Kallstenius, -21
canvas dimensions: 96 x 135 cm (37.8 x 53.1 inches)
frame: 112 x 151 cm (44.1 x 59.4 inches)

Provenance:
A private collection, Stockholm;
Stockholms Auktionsverk, "Stilla natt, 1923",
lot 3086429, 22 okt 2023

Condition:
The painting has recently been restored by a conservator and is perceived to be in very good condition. The canvas is smooth, and the colors are bright and clear. There are small, fine craquelures present, as can be expected with any 100 years old paintings. The frame, likely the original, is in good condition and is included in the purchase.

Essay:
"Silent Night, 1921" by Gottfrid Kallstenius is a wonderful painting that captures the beauty of the Swedish archipelago in moonlight. In our opinion, we think that this painting is arguably one of Kallstenius's most beautiful works, showcasing his unique ability to capture serene moments with emotional depth and technical precision with his brush. The location of the scene is from Tättö towards Kalvö in Sweden.
In the foreground, a couple is gently cradled by a rowboat, adrift in the still waters under a moonlit sky. The moon's reflection on the water creates a path of light that leads the viewer's eye through the painting, highlighting Kallstenius skillful hand of light and shadow.

The inclusion of a distant sailboat adds a layer of depth to the composition, suggesting the vastness of the landscape and the presence of life beyond the intimate scene in the rowboat. Kallstenius's use of muted tones and soft brushstrokes enhances the painting's dreamlike quality, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the peacefulness of the moment. The delicate interplay of light and reflection, combined with the subtle gradation of the sky's colors, demonstrates Kallstenius's mastery over his medium and his profound understanding of the nordic light.

Gottfrid Kallstenius, born in Västervik, Sweden, was an artist whose journey took him through various phases of learning and exploration. From his early education under Edvard Perséus to his formative years at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts, Kallstenius developed a foundation that would support a lifetime of artistic achievement. His travels in Paris, Brittany, and Italy, alongside his wife Gerda Roosval, further enriched his palette and influenced his shift from Realism to exploring new stylistic territories.

Despite his diverse artistic endeavors, which included teaching, mural painting, and writing about the art of oil painting, it is in works like "Silent Night, 1921" that Kallstenius's legacy truly shines. 

Gunnar Hallström (1875-1943) Sweden

Portrait of a Girl with a Pearl Earring

oil on canvas
signed HALLSTRÖM
c.1920
unframed 65 x 48.5 cm 
framed 79 x 63 cm
hand made oak frame by Christer Björkman

Essay:

This exquisite portrait by Gunnar Hallström, titled "Portrait of a Girl with a Pearl Earring" invites viewers into a moment of quiet introspection. Painted in the 1920s, the subject is a woman whose gaze is turned slightly to the side, suggesting a moment caught in thought. The black hair of the subject hints at a Southern European heritage, further accentuated by the singular elegance of a pearl earring. The rich ochre tones of her garment envelop her in warmth, suggesting a depth of character and resilience.

She appears lost in thoughts, what occupy her mind? Unfortunately we will never know. 

Gunnar Hallström (1875-1943) brings more than just artistic skill to this portrait; he brings a life rich in experiences and dedication to his craft. Married to the artist Signe Hallström from 1901 to 1922 and a father to four children, Hallström's life was as filled with personal journeys as his art. His academic pursuits at the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts between 1893 and 1897, followed by a scholarship in Paris (1906-1907), and his tenure as director and teacher at Valand Art School in Gothenburg (1910-1912), underline his dedication to art. Settling on Björkö in Lake Mälaren in 1912, Hallström became increasingly involved in preserving the island's ancient agricultural landscape.

Some of his drawings and paintings can be seen in The National Museum in Stockholms collection. 

 

Gustaf Fjaestad (Fjæstad) (1868-1948) Sweden

Spring Flood 1930

oil on board
signed and dated 30.4.30
unframed 22 x 36 cm
framed 35 x 48.5 cm

authenticated 1970 by his son Bo Fjæstad (on the back)

Essay:
"Spring Flood" from 1930 by Gustaf Fjæstad, is a compelling testament to his ability to capture the dynamic essence of nature. The artwork vividly illustrates the surging waters of a spring flood, with a sense of movement so intense that viewers can almost hear the rush of water. A remarkable feature of this piece is Fjæstad's innovative technique of etching details into the paint using the reverse end of his brush, adding texture and depth to the scene.

Gustaf Fjæstad was not only a distinguished Swedish painter but also a notable member of the Rackstad colony, a community of artists based in Arvika, Värmland. His artistic journey began at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts and was followed by studies at the Konstnärsförbundet school. Fjæstad's creative versatility saw him collaborate with artists like Bruno Liljefors and Carl Larsson, contributing to works displayed in prestigious locations, including the Biological Museum in Stockholm and the Stockholm National Museum.

Helmer Hertzhoff (1873-1958) Sweden

Aurora Borealis (Norrsken) 

oil on board
signed H Hertzhoff
c.1940
board dimensions 60.5 x 59.5 cm
frame 70 x 68 cm

Essay:
Norrsken (Aurora Borealis) is a vibrant painting in a pointillistic style with short brushstrokes, created by the artist Helmer Hertzhoff around 1940s. Hertzhoff, born in 1873 and passing away in 1958, was a master of capturing the ethereal beauty of nature through his artwork. This particular piece showcases his talent for conveying the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights.

The painting presents a kaleidoscope of colors, reminiscent of the enchanting display of the Aurora Borealis. The ground is depicted in shades of purple, green, blue, and yellow, forming a harmonious blend that adds depth to the composition. The sky, dominated by a strong blue hue, serves as the backdrop for the dazzling display of the Northern Lights in vibrant yellow tones. The strokes of yellow create luminous pillars that stretch across the heavens, illuminating the night with an otherworldly glow.

Amidst this celestial symphony, a few solitary pines stand tall, their presence adding a sense of tranquility and anchoring the viewer to the earthly realm. The contrast between the vivid yellow lights and the serene dark silhouettes of the trees further enhances the ethereal atmosphere of the painting. A sprinkle of stars can also be seen, glimmering in the background, as if paying homage to the nocturnal spectacle unfolding above.

Hertzhoff's masterful use of the pointillistic technique, with its meticulously applied short brushstrokes, creates a sense of movement and energy within the composition. The carefully placed dots of color blend harmoniously when viewed from a distance, evoking a feeling of awe and wonder that mirrors the actual experience of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.

Helmer Osslund (1866-1938) Sweden

Landscape View From Nordingrå, 1916

signed Helmer Osslund 
watercolor mounted on board
image dimensions 33 x 44 cm (13 x 17.3 inches)
frame 44 x 56 cm (17.3 x 22 inches)
the frame is hand made by Stockholms Bildhuggeri

Provenance:
A Swedish private collection

Essay: 
Helmer Osslund was a renowned Swedish artist known for his expressionist landscape paintings that captured the raw and natural beauty of Sweden. We are delighted to offer for sale a stunning watercolor painting by Osslund titled 'From Nordingrå,' executed circa 1916.

The dating of this piece is interesting; the back of the painting features a pasted page from the Swedish newspaper 'Svenska Dagbladet,' dated 1st May 1916, on which the artist noted the title of the painting in the corner, 'Från Nordingrå.' This not only gives us an intriguing insight into Osslund's work process but also allows us to reasonably assume that the painting was created around 1916.

The subject of the painting is the scenic landscape of Nordingrå in Ångermanland, an area known for its vast expanses and stunning natural beauty. The foreground features the contours of green pines, painted quickly and spontaneously by the artist, a tall mountain to the right, and a body of water in the valley to the left. The background features beautiful blue mountains, characteristic of this region of Sweden. The sky is expertly painted with broad brushstrokes in shades of green, pink, and blue. The painting is beautifully framed with a handcrafted frame from Stockholms Bildhuggeri, which we specially commissioned for this piece.

Osslund's unique approach to landscape painting is evident in this artwork. His use of color and brushwork reflects the influence of the French Impressionists, while his choice of subject matter and his spontaneous approach to capturing the landscape are distinctly his own. This painting is a prime example of Osslund's ability to capture the essence of a place with a fresh and innovative perspective.

Helmer Osslund (1866-1938) was born in Tuna, Medelpad, Sweden. He studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm but was highly influenced by the modernist movements he encountered during his travels to Germany and France. He is best known for his landscape paintings of northern Sweden, which often feature dramatic vistas and vibrant, expressive use of color. Osslund's work was not widely recognized during his lifetime, but today he is considered one of Sweden's most important landscape painters.

'From Nordingrå' is not just a painting; it is a window into the soul of the Swedish landscape and a reflection of Osslund's innovative approach to capturing the beauty of the world around him. Owning this painting is an opportunity to possess a piece of Swedish art history and the legacy of Helmer Osslund.

HENRIC ANKARCRONA (1831-1917) SWEDEN

LANDSCAPE FROM THE ROMAN CAMPAGNA, WITH RUINS IN THE DISTANCE

oil on paper 
signed with monogram HA
25 x 30 cm
c. 1879

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection

 

HENRIC ANKARCRONA (1831-1917) SWEDEN

MOTIF FROM THE THEATRE OF MARCELLUS, 1879
MOTIV FRÅN MARCELLUSTEATERN, 1879  

oil on paper
signed with monogram och dated HA 79
19.5 x 14.5 cm
with frame 29 x 24 cm    

Provenance:  A Swedish private collection

Henrik Nordenberg (1857-1928) Sweden

A Moment of Quiet Reflection

oil on canvas
signed Henrik nordenberg
unframed 45.5 x 61 cm
framed 56.5 x 71.5 cm

Condition:
The painting has recently been restored by our art conservator. It had some color loss that needed retouching. A new layer of varnish has been applied. Today, it is experienced in fine condition with a new gold frame.

Essay:
In the heart of a meticulously detailed, antique interior, "A Moment of Quiet Reflection" by Carl Henrik Nordenberg captures a serene and intimate moment that transcends time. The painting, rich in warm, earthy tones and imbued with a palpable sense of tranquility, invites viewers into a private world where time appears to stand still. At the center of this captivating scene is a man, ensconced in the comfort of his home, deeply engrossed in reading. His blue cap and reading glasses, along with the soft light that envelops him, lend a personal and timeless quality to the composition, evoking a universal appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

The setting of this painting is a testament to Nordenberg's skill in portraying interior spaces with historical authenticity and atmospheric depth. The room, with its robust wooden furniture, floor clock, and decorative bowls perched on a shelf, speaks of a bygone era, reminding us of how domestic interiors have evolved over time. Yet, despite the passage of years, the act of reading, of losing oneself in the pages of a book, remains a constant source of joy and reflection.

Henrik Nordenberg (1857–1928), a figure of the Düsseldorf School, was renowned for his landscape, genre, and interior paintings, as well as his work as an etcher and lithographer. Born in Sweden and later settling in Düsseldorf, Nordenberg was a part of a vibrant artistic community, contributing significantly to the genre and interior painting traditions of his time. His depiction of everyday life, infused with warmth, humor, and a keen eye for detail, earned him a distinguished place among his contemporaries.