Carl Johansson - Landscape View, 1927

Carl Johansson (1863-1944) Sweden

Landscape View, 1927 (Most likely from Nordingrå)

oil on wood panel
signed and dated Carl Johansson 27
unframed 38 x 54
framed 54 x 70 cm

Condition:
This painting has been restored by our art conservator in Stockholm in 2024 and is in exceptionally fine condition. The wooden panel is flat and intact, showing no signs of warping or damage. The frame is newly crafted in 2024 and is included in the price. Overall, the artwork presents beautifully and is ready for display.

Essay:
Carl Johansson's painting from 1927, most likely depicting a view from Nordingrå, encapsulates the serene beauty of the northern Swedish landscape. Born in Härnösand, Johansson drew much of his inspiration from the vast and peaceful sceneries of Norrland. The artwork showcases his skill in capturing the natural light and atmosphere, a hallmark of his work. His technique involves soft, sweeping brushstrokes and a delicate palette that highlights the tranquil greenery and expansive water views typical of the Norrland region.

Johansson was a versatile artist, having also painted landscapes from places like France, Tenerife, and Italy. However, his heart often returned to Norrland, earning him the nickname "The Painter of Norrland." The sunlight in his paintings is almost always positioned at a 30-degree angle from the north-northwest, giving a consistent sense of time and place in his works.

His artistic potential was first noticed by Conny Burman, his drawing teacher at Klara elementary school, and he was later mentored by Edvard Perséus during his high school years. He began formal art training at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts in 1882, under the guidance of Perséus and Per Daniel Holm. In 1885, he joined the group of artists known as the "Opponents," which led to his departure from the Academy. This group sought to challenge the established norms in Swedish art.

Johansson’s works are appreciated for their gentle realism and deep connection to the landscapes of northern Sweden. His pieces are part of several esteemed collections, including those at the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm, Kalmar Art Museum, and the municipal collection of Hudiksvall.