Olof Walfrid Nilsson - Winter Evening at the Mill

Olof Walfrid Nilsson (1868 - 1956, Swedish)

Winter Evening at the Mill

oil on canvas
signed and dated Olof W. Nilsson 1923
unframed 70 x 56 cm (27.6 x 22 inches)
framed 78 x 65 cm (30.7 x 25.6 inches)

Essay:
Our painting "Winter Evening at the Mill," created by the Swedish painter Olof Walfrid Nilsson, offers a serene and evocative depiction of a winter landscape. Born on October 12, 1868, in Norra Råda socken, Värmland, and passing away on February 23, 1956, in Karlstad, Nilsson was renowned as a painter, draughtsman, and decorative artist, primarily active in Karlstad, the Gothenburg region, and Lapland. The painting features a captivating scene set in the quietude of winter. The central motif is a gently flowing stream, flanked by the snowy tranquility of the landscape. In the background, a timber cottage sits adjacent to a pond that regulates the stream, suggesting the presence of an early hydroelectric power station or a watermill. This element adds a touch of historical and technological intrigue to the scene. Nilsson's mastery in capturing the beauty of the evening is evident in the way he plays with light and color. The entire sky is bathed in a warm yellow glow, which reflects off the snow, casting it in shades of blue. The trees and timber house also adopt a subtle blue tone, harmonizing beautifully with the landscape. The stream mirrors the blue hues and the yellow of the sky, creating a mesmerizing interplay of colors that brings the scene to life. This painting is a fine example of Nilsson's skill in portraying landscapes, particularly his renowned "fjällmålningar" or mountain paintings, as well as his "icy" sceneries. His contribution to the art world extends beyond canvas, as he was involved in the interior decoration of several prestigious buildings in Gothenburg and public artworks in Karlstad, including wall and ceiling paintings in the staircase of the Sockerslottet and the ceiling painting in the ballroom of the Grand Hotel in 1904. "Winter Evening at the Mill" by Olof Walfrid Nilsson is not only a visually stunning piece but also a representation of the artist's deep connection to the Swedish landscape. It invites viewers into a peaceful winter scene, offering a glimpse into Nilsson's artistic world. His works, including this painting, continue to be celebrated and are part of collections, such as at the Norrköping Art Museum. 


Provenance: A Swedish private collection.