Oscar Ohlson - On the Jetty

On the Jetty

oil on board
signed Oscar Ohlson
painted c. 1890
unframed c. 15 x 25 cm
framed 26 x 35.5 cm

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection.

Essay:
The artwork "On the Jetty" by Oscar Ohlson, measuring only 15 x 25 cm, portrays an intimate gathering on a wooden dock, captured in the delicate hues of the late 19th century. Elegantly dressed individuals, all donning hats, are depicted in a serene moment by the water's edge. Two are seated and next to them a standing couple, adding a touch of elegance and poise to the scene.

What truly sets this painting apart are the mesmerizing reflections on the water, showcasing Ohlson's exceptional skill in capturing the play of light and shadow. The calm water mirrors the sky, the people, and the surrounding nature with such fidelity that it invites viewers to pause and immerse themselves in the tranquil moment.

In the background, a few boats are gently bobbing on the water, and if one looks closely, a figure can be seen walking along a path, adding a layer of depth and narrative to the composition. Painted around 1890, this piece is a testament to Ohlson's ability to encapsulate the idyllic and peaceful essence of the Swedish landscape.

Oscar Ohlson (1847-1912), born in Linneryd, Småland, was a multifaceted individual who transitioned from a legal education at Uppsala University to pursue music and eventually painting, under the guidance of Alfred Wahlberg. Settling in Borås, he became known not only as a music teacher but also as an accomplished landscape painter. His art predominantly features moonlit scenes and idyllic vistas of Öresund and Blekinge, capturing the tranquil beauty of the Swedish countryside with a tender and reflective gaze.