Erik Abrahamsson - Lake Landscape at Dusk with a Rowboat

Erik Abrahamsson (1871-1907) Sweden

Lake Landscape at Dusk with a Rowboat, 1896

oil on canvas
signed and dated E.Abrahamsson 1896
unframed 33 x 40 cm (12.99 x 15.75 inches)
framed 44 x 51 cm (17.32 x 20.08 inches)

Condition:
This painting has been restored by a professional art conservator in 2024. The colors are now vivid and vibrant, looking as fresh as when Erik Abrahamsson originally painted it in 1896. A newly crafted gold frame is included in the purchase, complementing the artwork beautifully.

Essay:
"Lake Landscape at Dusk with a Rowboat" is a captivating oil painting by the Swedish artist Erik Abrahamsson. Created in 1896, this work masterfully captures the tranquil beauty of a lakeside landscape bathed in the warm, fading light of dusk.

The painting is dominated by a serene lake, its surface reflecting the fiery hues of the sunset sky. The transition from the soft orange and pink tones of the horizon to the deeper blues of the evening creates a stunning visual gradient. The sky is dotted with wispy clouds, tinged with the last rays of the sun.

In the foreground, the shoreline is rugged and shadowed, providing a stark contrast to the illuminated water. A solitary rowboat glides gently across the calm lake, emphasizing the stillness and peace of the scene. Along the water’s edge, tall grasses sway subtly, adding a touch of movement to the otherwise tranquil setting.

On the left, a cluster of dark pine trees rises against the sky, their silhouettes standing out sharply against the vivid backdrop. In the middle distance, small, cozy farmhouses can be seen, their red roofs just visible as twilight descends.

This painting exemplifies Abrahamsson's skill in portraying natural light and his keen eye for capturing the serene beauty of the Swedish landscape.

The Artist:

Erik Abrahamsson (March 12, 1871 – January 15, 1907) was a Swedish painter and graphic artist. Born and died in Stockholm, Abrahamsson developed his craft through rigorous study and a natural talent for capturing the Nordic environment.

He honed his skills at the prestigious Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts from 1890 to 1896 and further advanced his techniques in etching during 1895-1896 under the guidance of Axel Tallberg. In addition to his studies, Abrahamsson worked as an engraver for the Swedish Postal Service starting in 1891, a position that influenced his meticulous attention to detail.

Though his life was tragically cut short at the age of 35, Abrahamsson was celebrated for his promising career as a graphic artist. His oeuvre, albeit limited due to his untimely death, includes finely executed plates featuring evocative landscapes.