Produits

Olof Arborelius (1842-1915) Sweden

Ruins of Ancient Rome, c. 1870-72

Oil on paper mounted on cardboard
signed with monogram OA
unframed 15.5 x 24 (15.5 x 24 inches)
framed 24 x 33 (24 x 33 inches)

Provenance:
The artist's estate;  
Erik Thorwald Arborelius (1883-1974), the artist's son

Condition: 
The painting has recently been restored by a professional art conservator. The colors are now significantly brighter and sharper, much like when the artist originally created the work. The frame is newly made and is included in the price.

Essay:
This beautiful oil sketch, painted en plein air, was created by Swedish artist Olof Arborelius during his stay in Italy from the fall of 1870 until January 1872. The painting features a charming depiction of ancient Roman ruins—either a city wall or an aqueduct—surrounded by lush trees under the clear Italian sky. With loose brushstrokes and a soft, atmospheric touch, the artist captures the natural light and Mediterranean ambiance, demonstrating his profound understanding of plein air painting.

Arborelius was heavily influenced by French artistic trends of the time, particularly in his color sensitivity and study of light and air. His time in Italy was critical for his artistic development, marking the height of his mastery in capturing the delicate interplay of light, color, and atmosphere.

Several of Arborelius’ Italian oil studies, including similar small-format plein air works, were later exhibited at various prestigious exhibitions. These include the Svenska konstnärernas förening memorial exhibition in 1910, the Svensk-Franska Konstgalleriet in Stockholm in 1931, and a memorial exhibition at the Nationalmuseum in 1943. 

Viggo Loos praised Arborelius' Italian studies for their "sensitivity to color" and "intense exploration of light and atmosphere," highlighting these works as a high point in the artist's career. Loos emphasized how Arborelius skillfully captured the essence of the Mediterranean landscape, using vibrant tones and delicate brushwork to convey the interplay of light and air.

Moreover, Folke Holmér, the curator of Arborelius’ 1943 memorial exhibition, described his Italian sketches as some of the most painterly pieces of his early production, worthy of comparison with the best works Swedish artists had produced in Italy.

Among his notable works in major collections are three of his Italian oil studies held at the Nationalmuseum: View from Rome Towards the Arch of Septimius Severus (NM 1930), The Interior of the Colosseum (NM 1931), and Italian Landscape (NM 1932). All were purchased in 1916 from the artist’s estate after his death.

Olof Sager-Nelson (1868-1896) Sweden

Bruges, 1894

oil on canvas
unframed 37 x 24.5 cm
framed 53 x 40 cm
handmade oak frame by
Stockholms Förgyllnings och Bildhuggeri.

Condition:
Recently restored by Sonia Leon. When we received it, the brushstrokes were almost entirely obscured by a thick, old varnish. Today, it is in very good condition, and the colors have been revived. The frame, which is made of oak, is handcrafted by Christer Björkman.

Provenance:
Ina Colliander, relative of the artist.

Exhibited:
Thielska Gallery, Stockholm, "Olof Sager-Nelson and his
contemporaries – Anywhere out of the world" September, 2015.
Dalsland Museum.

Essay:
This painting by Olof Sager-Nelson, executed during his time in Bruges in 1894, is a splendid example of symbolism. It depicts a serene canal in Bruges, surrounded by sunlit houses whose reflections gracefully dance upon the water's surface. The choice of Bruges as a subject reflects Sager-Nelson's fascination with the town, a sentiment he shared with many artists of his time. In his correspondence, he often spoke of the struggle to complete paintings that he could send back to Sweden, highlighting his dedication and the financial support he received from patron Pontus Fürstenberg.

Sager-Nelson's life was marked by significant personal challenges, including the loss of his mother at a young age and his father's emigration to the USA after being convicted of embezzlement. Opting for an artistic path after an unsuccessful attempt to study engineering, he found his calling in the arts, studying under Bruno Liljefors at Valand's art school and later drawing inspiration from contemporaries like Édouard Manet, James McNeill Whistler, and Paul Gauguin in Paris. His paintings from 1894, among which this piece is a prime example, are considered his most accomplished works.

Symbolism, as a movement, sought to express the idea that reality could be symbolized by forms and colors that evoke an emotional response rather than directly represent the world. Sager-Nelson's work reflects this philosophy through its emotive use of color and composition, seeking to capture the essence and atmosphere of Bruges rather than a mere photographic representation.

The painting's previous ownership by Sager-Nelson's relative, Ina Colliander, adds to its historical and sentimental value. Sager-Nelson's exploration of symbolism was not just a mere artistic endeavor but a deep, personal journey into the complexities of human emotions and the mysteries of existence, often reflecting his own intense feelings and inner world.

This work stands as a testament to Sager-Nelson's brief but impactful career, capturing the beauty of Bruges through a symbolist lens. It invites the viewer to look beyond the physical world into the emotional and spiritual realms that Sager-Nelson navigated with such passion and sensitivity.

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.

A Scandinavian Landscape View, c. 1920


signed Osc.Lycke
oil on canvas
canvas dimensions 104.5 x 147.5 cm
frame dimensions 111.5 x 154.5 cm

Oscar Lycke was a Swedish artist from Sundsvall. He is best known for his impressive colourful landscape paintings in a national romantic and realism style. The motifs were often mountains, forests, rapids, and lakes painted with his self-taught style. Lycke exhibited many times in northern Sweden, but also at one time in New York, with great success. This painting is from Hälsingland, which is located in the middle part of Sweden; it depicts a Landscape view with a dramatic sky. Lycke captured the famous nordic light in the best possible manner; this part of Sweden was back then - and still today a popular go-to place for tourism.

Provenance: A Swedish private collection.

unframed: 27 x 40 cm (10.6 x 15.7 inches)
framed: 36.5 x 50.5 cm (14.4 x 19.9 inches)

Compare: 
An almost identical painting with the same motif and executed in the same year can be found in the Halland Art Museum (Hallands konstmuseum), inventory number HMK000588.

Essay:
The painting "Halmstad Harbour Seen From the North" by Oscar Ohlson is a captivating snapshot of daily life and historical architecture, frozen in time from the year 1889. With a meticulous eye for detail, Ohlson has rendered approximately 25 boats in the harbor, each brimming with the quiet bustle of daily chores. The painting invites viewers to step into a moment where people converse, work, and seek respite from the sun under shared umbrellas, while wisps of smoke subtly rise from several boats, suggesting the presence of life and activity beyond the canvas.

In this vibrant scene, a man carries a sack, perhaps fresh merchandise from one of the docked vessels, while others engage in conversation, highlighting the social tapestry of the harbor. Ohlson's masterful use of light reflects on the water, creating a shimmering path that leads the eye to the majestic Halmstad Castle, which adorns the right side of the painting. This historic building, beautifully situated by the Nissan river and not far from the sea, is a testament to Halmstad's past as a Danish territory. Constructed in the early 17th century during the reign of King Christian IV, the castle stands as a reminder of the town's rich history and cultural heritage.

The first building to the right, once part of this historic tableau, has been removed to accommodate modern necessities, replaced by a road that now runs through its former site. This juxtaposition of past and present is a poignant commentary on the evolution of cities and the sacrifices made in the name of progress.

Halmstad itself, a town that straddles the Nissan river, retains much of its early 20th-century character in its city core. Low brick and half-timbered houses, some dating back to the 17th century, dot the landscape. The town center on the west side of Nissan is bordered by remnants of early 17th-century fortifications, including the 1600s castle, Norre Port from 1601, and King Charles XI's path along the old fortress wall. At the heart of the town is Stora Torg with Carl Milles' Europa and the Bull fountain from 1926, and the town hall built in 1938. The city layout, influenced by Renaissance planning, converges at Stora Torg, which is also home to the town's sole medieval building, the brick hall church of St. Nikolai from the 14th century.

Oscar Ohlson (1847-1912), a native of Linneryd, Småland, was a multifaceted individual. Beginning his career with a legal degree from Uppsala University in 1870, Ohlson's passion for the arts led him to pursue music studies before dedicating himself to art under the guidance of Alfred Wahlberg. Settling in Borås, he imparted vocal lessons and crafted his artistic legacy. Ohlson's oeuvre primarily consists of moonlit landscapes and idyllic scenes from Öresund and Blekinge, capturing the tranquil beauty of the Swedish countryside.

The "Halmstad Harbour Seen From the North" stands not only as a beautiful work of art but also as a historical document, allowing us a glimpse into the vibrant life of Halmstad during the late 19th century, as seen through the delicate brushstrokes of Oscar Ohlson.

Oscar Ohlson (1847-1912) Sweden

"Långälven, Värmland"

oil on canvas
signed Oscar Ohlson
unframed 25.5 x 38.5 cm
framed 35.5 x 48.5

Essay:
This enchanting Swedish painting, dated circa 1890, is believed to depict the tranquil waters of Långälven in Värmland, a testament to Ohlson's prowess in capturing the essence of the Swedish countryside.

The scene is a gentle narrative, where we witness a family moment frozen in time. Parents stand by their daughter on a wooden dock, poised to embark on a journey across the reflective waters. The young girl, dressed in period attire, appears eager and curious, a universal symbol of youth's anticipation for adventure. Her parents, dressed in the fashion of the late 19th century, exude a sense of calm and assurance.

Ohlson's brushwork brings the scene to life with a delicate interplay of light and shadow, mirroring the cloud-speckled sky on the lake's surface. The background is dotted with other vessels, suggesting the shared pleasure of the day's end on the water.

Oscar Ohlson (1847–1912), born in Linneryd, Småland, and later settling in Borås, was a multifaceted artist who, after pursuing law, found his true calling in the arts. A student of Alfred Wahlberg, Ohlson's works are characterized by moonlit landscapes and idyllic themes from around Öresund and Blekinge. This painting is a fine example of his landscape oeuvre, reflecting a romantic yet realistic portrayal of Swedish nature and leisure at the turn of the century.

Oskar Bergman (1879-1963) Sweden

A Miniature Landscape With Birch Trees

watercolor on paper
signed Oskar Bergman 
unframed c. 5.5 x 4 cm
framed 15.5 x 13.5 cm

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection. 

Essay:
This exquisite miniature watercolor by Oskar Bergman, measuring just 5.5 x 4 cm, beautifully captures the essence of a serene Swedish landscape. In this scene, slender birch trees, with their white bark and delicate branches, stand gracefully against a deep blue sky. In the background, the landscape unfolds gently, with a glimmering body of water reflecting the tranquility of the scene, and blue-tinged mountains softly fading into the distance. The foreground is dotted with wildflowers, adding a touch of color and life to the composition.

Oskar Bergman, born on October 18, 1879, in Stockholm, was a highly regarded Swedish painter and graphic artist known for his detailed and realistic depictions of the central Swedish landscape. Despite being self-taught, Bergman developed a distinctive style, particularly in watercolor and gouache, which allowed him to render the subtleties of nature with great precision and sensitivity. Throughout his career, he made numerous study trips across Europe, which enriched his artistic expression and broadened his perspective.

Bergman's works are held in high esteem and are represented in several prestigious institutions, including the Nationalmuseum, the Thiel Gallery, and the Norrköping Art Museum. He lived for many years near Neglinge Gård in Saltsjöbaden, where he eventually passed away on July 20, 1963. 

Oskar Bergman (1879-1963) Sweden

Birch Trees Reflected in a Stream

watercolor on paper
signed Oskar Bergman 
c. 1905-1915
full paper dimensions: 7.5 x 6 cm (2.95 x 2.36 inches)
visible image: 5.5 x 4 cm (2.17 x 1.57 inches)
framed: 14 x 11.5 cm (5.51 x 4.53 inches) ​​

Condition: 
Very good condition, with bright and clear colors.
We've replaced the old glass with a UV protected non-reflective glass.

Provenance: 
A Swedish privat collection;
Stockholms Auktionsverk, no 3413529. 

Essay:
We are delighted to present this rare miniature landscape by the artist Oskar Bergman. Measuring just 5.5 x 4 cm, this exquisite piece comes with its original frame and gold passepartout.

The painting beautifully depicts a tranquil scene of birch trees standing tall by a meandering stream, set against a vivid blue sky. The intricate details and vibrant colors showcase Bergman's mastery in watercolor, capturing the serene beauty of the Swedish landscape with remarkable precision and realism.

About the artist: Oskar Bergman (born October 18, 1879, in Stockholm – died July 20, 1963, in Saltsjöbaden) was a distinguished Swedish painter and graphic artist. Bergman primarily worked with watercolor and gouache, creating realistic and detailed portrayals of the central Swedish landscape. Despite being self-taught, he made several study trips across Europe to refine his skills and broaden his artistic horizons.

Bergman's works are well-represented in prominent institutions such as the Nationalmuseum, the Thiel Gallery, Norrköping Art Museum, Örebro County Council, and Malmö Museum. He resided near Neglinge Gård in Saltsjöbaden for many years and is buried at the local cemetery in Skogsö. Notably, Oskar Bergman was the brother of actor and theater director Axel Bergman.

This miniature landscape, which is one of the finest we have seen, is a testament to Bergman's exceptional talent and his ability to encapsulate the essence of nature in a compact format. 

Oskar Bergman (1879-1963) Sweden

Landscape with Trees

oil painting on masonite 
signed Oskar Bergman
unframed 20.5 x 30 cm
framed 30 x 39 cm

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection. 

Essay:
This atmospheric oil painting by Oskar Bergman, created around 1930-1940, captures a serene moment in nature. Soft, muted tones blend with intricate brushwork, depicting a dense cluster of trees against a gentle, pastel-toned sky. The foliage, rendered with meticulous detail, seems to sway with a quiet rhythm, immersing the viewer in a peaceful woodland scene. The depth and subtle play of light evoke a tranquil, timeless quality, showcasing Bergman's mastery in capturing the essence of the Swedish landscape.

About the Artist: Oskar Bergman (October 18, 1879 - July 20, 1963) was a celebrated Swedish painter and graphic artist known for his finely detailed portrayals of the Scandinavian landscape. Although largely self-taught, Bergman developed a distinctive style that combines realism with an almost poetic sensitivity to nature's subtleties. He primarily worked in watercolor and gouache, favoring these mediums for their ability to convey delicate nuances in light and color. Bergman's works are part of esteemed collections, including Musée d'Orsay Paris, Sweden’s Nationalmuseum, Thielska Galleriet, Norrköping Konstmuseum and Malmö Museum.