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.

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.