Eric Johansson - Woman with Red Bow, 1940

Eric Johansson (1896-1979) Sweden/Germany

Woman with Red Bow, 1940

oil on wood panel
signed on the back of the panel
dated 1940
unframed 60 x 54 cm
framed 71.5 x 66 cm 

Provenance: 
A Swedish private collection

Conditon: 
Very good condition, restored by a professional art restorer in 2024. Its original frame has an old patina and minor flaws. 

Eric Johansson's "Woman with Red Bow" (1940)

We are delighted to present for sale the evocative portrait “Woman with Red Bow” by the distinguished artist Eric Johansson, painted in 1940. This exquisite artwork portrays a woman seated by a window, holding a cigarette, her thoughtful gaze suggesting a narrative rich with introspection. The bold red bow tied around her neck contrasts strikingly with her dark attire, emphasizing her poised presence.

The scene, set in Täby just outside Stockholm, is imbued with a serene atmosphere, capturing a moment of quiet reflection. The bare trees visible through the window frame the subject against the muted tones of the backdrop, evoking a sense of stillness and contemplation. The painting, created during a time of global upheaval, invites viewers to ponder the woman’s inner world and the experiences she has endured.

About the Artist

Eric Johansson: A Journey Through Turbulent Times

Born in Dresden, Germany, in 1896, Eric Johansson was a talented artist whose life was deeply affected by the political upheavals of his time. Though relatively unknown in Sweden, Johansson achieved recognition as a notable expressionist abroad. His work, marked by vibrant expressions and emotional depth, was heavily influenced by the modernist movements of early 20th-century Europe, particularly the German expressionist collective "Die Brücke."

Growing up with German foster parents in a culturally rich Dresden, Johansson was immersed in an environment that nurtured his artistic ambitions. However, the rise of the Nazi regime in 1933 posed significant threats to his career and safety. Johansson, an outspoken critic of the regime and a member of the Communist Party, was also married to a Jewish woman. These factors made him a target for persecution. His art was deemed "degenerate" by the Nazis, and his works were displayed alongside other modernist masterpieces in the notorious Degenerate art (Entartete Kunst) exhibition, which aimed to discredit and condemn modernist art.

Despite his Swedish citizenship providing some initial protection, Johansson faced increasing danger. A casual remark about Hermann Göring led to his imprisonment for four months. Following his release, Johansson managed to escape from Germany, journeying through Czechoslovakia and Poland before finally finding refuge in Sweden, where he spent the rest of his life.

Johansson's body of work, much of which was tragically lost or destroyed during the Nazi purges, serves as a poignant testament to his resilience and artistic spirit. His paintings, once denigrated by the Nazis, now stand as enduring symbols of defiance and the power of creative expression in the face of oppression.

The Significance of "Woman with Red Bow"

Painted in 1940, as Europe was engulfed in the turmoil of World War II, "Woman with Red Bow" reflects a moment of deep contemplation and tranquility. The woman's serene yet enigmatic presence symbolizes a personal and collective resilience during a time of widespread uncertainty. The vibrant red bow serves as both a striking visual element and a symbol of strength amidst adversity.