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.

Mauritz Lindström (1849-1923)

Winter Twilight

oil on canvas
signed A M Lindström
unframed: 77 x 127 cm (30 3/8 x 50 in)
framed: 101 x 152 cm (39 3/4 x 59 7/8 in)

Essay:
This stunning winter landscape by Mauritz Lindström captures the serene yet striking beauty of a snow-laden scene illuminated by the warm glow of twilight. The interplay between the soft, colorful hues of the evening sky and the intricate, frost-covered branches creates an almost three-dimensional effect, drawing the viewer into the composition. The detailed rendering of the snow and the trees evokes a profound sense of coldness, making the atmosphere almost palpable. Measuring an impressive 101 x 152 cm (39 3/4 x 59 7/8 in) with the frame, this large-scale work is a testament to Lindström's mastery of light and texture.

Arvid Mauritz Lindström (1849–1923) was a celebrated Swedish painter renowned for his evocative landscapes. Born in Björksta, Västmanland, he honed his skills at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm between 1869 and 1872, followed by further studies in Munich and Paris. During the 1880s, Lindström resided in London, where he continued to refine his craft and gained recognition for his atmospheric scenes.

A member of the Opponenterna, Lindström exhibited frequently, including at the 1885 Opponent Exhibition, where his work Motiv från Skottland was acquired by Sweden's Nationalmuseum. He later joined the Konstnärsförbundet but eventually distanced himself from collective movements, choosing an independent artistic path. 

This particular painting is a fine example of his ability to evoke both the majesty and the intimacy of the Nordic landscape, making it a significant addition to any collection.

Conditon Report:
The painting has been recently cleaned, and the colors are vibrant and strong. The original frame has been looked over, with minor retouching in certain areas. While the frame is in good condition, it does show small, age-related imperfections, which are typical for antique frames.

Please note that shipping the frame involves certain risks. It is possible that minor elements may need to be re-glued after transport. Buyers should be aware of this. However, we will pack the painting and frame meticulously in a custom wooden crate to ensure the best possible protection during transit.

Joos de Momper II (Follower of) 

An Extensive River Landscape with Figures

oil on copper
unframed: 18.3 x 26.3 cm (7 1/4 x 10 3/8 in)
framed: 35.5 x 43.5 cm (14 x 17 1/8 in)

Essay:
This captivating painting, rendered on copper, portrays an idyllic riverside scene. A harmonious blend of architectural elements, natural beauty, and human activity animates the composition. The village in the foreground is marked by a warm, rosy palette, with its lively buildings and cobblestone paths echoing the vibrancy of human life. Figures are scattered throughout, engaged in daily activities, lending the piece a narrative quality. The serene river to the right features a sailboat gracefully navigating the waters, while dramatic cliffs rise in the background, framing the scene with an air of mystery.

Attributed to a follower of Joos de Momper II, this work reflects the enduring influence of one of the Flemish Golden Age's foremost landscape painters. Active in Antwerp during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, de Momper was celebrated for his panoramic vistas and his distinctive use of color gradation, transitioning from earthy browns to lush greens and ethereal blues. His works bridged the transition from Mannerist stylization to the more realistic landscapes that defined the 17th century.

Although this painting likely dates to the 18th century, it carries the hallmarks of de Momper's style, showcasing the meticulous detailing and atmospheric perspective for which Flemish landscape painting is renowned. The choice of copper as a medium not only enhances the vibrancy of the pigments but also underscores the work's craftsmanship and durability.

Joos de Momper's artistic lineage is steeped in collaboration and innovation. His vast output, often created in partnership with figure painters like Jan Brueghel the Elder, established him as a pivotal figure in the evolution of landscape art. The enduring appeal of his style is evident in works like this, where a follower has faithfully embraced his spirit, offering a timeless glimpse into an imagined, yet deeply evocative world.

Condition Report: 
The painting is in excellent condition. It has undergone restoration at some point in the not-too-distant past. The colors are strong and clear. The fine frame, which complements the artwork beautifully, is included.

Oscar Jansson, Arvika, Sweden

Sunburst, 1906
(Swedish original title: Solbrytning) 

oil on canvas
signed and dated OSCAR JANSON 1906
unframed: 99.5 x 120 cm (39 1/4 x 47 1/4 inches)
framed: 115 x 135 cm (45 1/4 x 53 1/8 inches)

Provenance: 
A private collection, Karlstad. 

Condition Report: 
The painting has undergone careful restoration over several months by our conservator. It has been cleaned and given a fresh varnish. Some areas have minor retouching, and there are a few fine vertical cracks in the paint, as visible in the photographs. The painting is now in very good condition and comes with a newly crafted gilt frame included in the purchase.

Essay:
This captivating landscape by the elusive Swedish artist Oscar Jansson (sometimes referred to as Janson) exemplifies his rare but striking body of work. Painted in 1906, Solbrytning showcases a dramatic interplay of light and shadow as the sun pierces through heavy clouds, illuminating the Värmland landscape. The composition features a dense forest in the foreground, rendered in muted tones, with distant hills fading into soft blues and greys. Above, the expansive sky dominates the scene, capturing the fleeting beauty of natural light breaking through the atmosphere.

Portrait of Oscar Jansson, 1907
The artist in his early twenties, this photograph provides a rare glimpse of the enigmatic painter.

Jansson’s ability to convey the subtleties of the Nordic landscape is remarkable, particularly considering his limited oeuvre. Very little is known about the artist’s life, except for a small number of extant works. A photograph from circa 1907 depicts four of his paintings displayed together, all sharing compositional and stylistic similarities with Solbrytning. These works suggest Jansson’s deep engagement with capturing the ephemeral qualities of light and the poetic mood of Sweden's natural scenery.


Four paintings by Oscar Jansson displayed together, circa 1907

The large dimensions of this painting—measuring 115 x 135 cm with frame—make it a commanding centerpiece. Its atmospheric depth and masterful handling of light invite the viewer to linger, evoking a profound sense of connection to the landscape.

Olle Hjortzberg (1872-1959) Sweden

Summer Evening in Montreux, 1902

watercolor on paper
signed and dated OLLE HJORTZBERG MONTREUX JULI. 02.
unframed: 29 x 23 cm (11 3/8 x 9 in)
framed: 39.5 x 33 cm (15 1/2 x 13 in)

Exhibited:
Presumably at The Royal Academy in Stockholm, Olle Hjortzberg’s Retrospective Exhibition, 1942, listed as no. 31: “Landskap från Bouveret”, watercolor, 1902. Provenance: Ruth Dalén.

Condition Report:
The watercolor is in very good condition. The colors are vibrant and clear. The frame is newly made and fitted with UV-protected, anti-reflective glass.

Essay:
This exquisite watercolor by the Swedish artist Olle Hjortzberg (1872–1959) captures a serene view of Montreux, Switzerland, in July 1902. Known for his masterful use of color and light, Hjortzberg renders the scene with a breathtaking interplay of soft blue tones and shimmering reflections on the water. The glowing lanterns in the background lend the painting a poetic atmosphere, evoking the quiet charm of a village nestled by Lake Geneva.

Hjortzberg, celebrated as a painter, graphic artist, and muralist, studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm and later traveled extensively through France, Italy, Greece, and Palestine. His diverse artistic achievements include church decorations, stained glass designs, and book illustrations, with notable contributions to Sweden's cultural heritage such as his work for Stockholm’s Dramatic Theatre and Uppsala Cathedral. His art often merges traditional influences with modern sensibilities, as seen in his monumental church murals and other decorative commissions.

Montreux, located along the shores of Lake Geneva, has long been admired for its stunning landscapes and tranquil ambiance, attracting artists and writers seeking inspiration. Hjortzberg's depiction of the town reflects his keen eye for capturing the subtle beauty of a fleeting moment.

This painting not only showcases Hjortzberg’s technical skill but also offers a glimpse into his travels and inspirations during an era when European landscapes were a popular subject for artists. 

Hilding Werner (1880-1944) Sweden

Värmland Landscape at Twilight

oil on canvas
signed H.Werner
unframed: 32 x 37 cm (12.6 x 14.6 inches)
framed: 42 x 47 cm (16.5 x 18.5 inches)

Condition: 
The artwork is in excellent condition, having recently been cleaned. The frame is included in the purchase.

Essay:
This landscape by Hilding Werner transports the viewer to the serene beauty of Värmland. Dominated by the vast expanse of sky, which occupies approximately two-thirds of the composition, the painting draws attention to the artist's masterful use of broad, confident brushstrokes. The delicate interplay of colors in the sky, particularly the soft lilac tones, conveys a serene yet dynamic ambiance, beautifully capturing the ephemeral magic of twilight.

At the horizon, the gentle rolling hills and rustic red cottages, nestled among the snowy trees, serve as a subtle reminder of Värmland's rural charm. Werner's ability to blend romanticism with realism is evident, reflecting the influence of his contemporaries Gustaf Fjæstad and Otto Hesselbom. The painting is a testament to Werner's deep connection to the landscapes of his home region and his skill in translating its essence onto canvas.

Hilding Werner (1880–1944), a Värmland native, studied at Caleb Althin’s school in Stockholm and was influenced by the likes of Richard Bergh and the artists’ group De Frie. While he is celebrated for his landscapes, Werner also explored satirical caricature and portraiture. His painting can be seen in Värmlands Museum, Karlstad.

Carl Ewald Lönngren (1839-1902)

Mother Washing with Children Nearby

oil on canvas laid on board
signed C E Lönngren
unframed: 34.5 x 30 cm (13.6 x 11.8 inches)
framed: 50 x 46 cm (19.7 x 18.1 inches)

Essay:
This delightful painting by Carl Ewald Lönngren captures a serene moment of rural life in late 19th-century Sweden. The scene shows a mother kneeling by a wash basin, surrounded by her children, all framed by a lush summer landscape. Apple trees laden with fruit and a charming red wooden house in the background evoke the simplicity and beauty of the Swedish countryside. Lönngren's meticulous brushwork and skillful use of light imbue the composition with warmth and a sense of nostalgia. The natural, everyday setting reflects the artist’s talent for portraying intimate moments that resonate with timeless charm.

Carl Ewald Lönngren was born in Stockholm in 1839 and studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts from 1873 to 1877. Known for his detailed and atmospheric depictions of Stockholm cityscapes, rural landscapes, and interiors, Lönngren’s work holds significant cultural and historical value. His paintings often balance human activity with the natural environment, showcasing his mastery of light and atmosphere.

Lönngren exhibited his works with the Stockholm Art Association and in cities such as Härnösand and Borås. Today, his art can be found in several prestigious collections, including the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm, Östergötlands Museum, Uppsala University Library, and Bornholm Art Museum in Denmark.

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.

Emma Ekwall (1838-1925) Sweden

Still Life with Fruits, 1911

oil on canvas laid on board
signed and dated E.Ekwall 1911
unframed: 20.5 x 32 cm (8 x 12.6 inches)
framed: 30.5 x 41 cm (12 x 16.1 inches) 

Provenance:
The artist;
Anonymous Christmas gift 1911;
Marianne Berg, Stockholm (before 1937);
Gift to Ida Segerström, 1937;
A private collection Södermanland. 

Condition: 
The Still life is in a very good condition. The surface has been recently cleaned, and the colors are vibrant. The original frame is included and features an aged patina with minor imperfections.

Essay:
This exquisite still life, painted in 1911, showcases Emma Ekwall’s mastery in capturing the vibrant textures and colors of fruit. The composition features apples and grapes arranged with meticulous care, exuding warmth and a tactile richness. Still life paintings like this often serve as meditations on the beauty and impermanence of life, highlighting the fleeting charm of everyday objects.

Emma Ekwall (1838–1925) was a trailblazing Swedish artist known for her delicate and precise style. Born in Säby socken (present-day Tranås municipality), she studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, where she became the first woman to receive the Royal Medal in 1871. After completing her studies, Ekwall spent time in Munich and Leipzig, honing her craft. While she was celebrated for her portraits, particularly of children, she also excelled in floral still lifes and genre scenes.

Her works are held in esteemed collections, including Sweden’s Nationalmuseum, Norrköping Art Museum, and Kalmar Art Museum. This still life stands as a testament to her ability to transform simple subjects into timeless works of art.