In this themed auction, we offer a selection of high-quality classical works, where Swedish and Nordic landscape painting from the late 19th century onwards constitutes a dominant part. The last decades of the 19th century were a time of radical development in European art. While history painting remained highly esteemed in the conservative art academies, young talents sought a freer approach to painting. They ventured abroad, primarily to France, where a new form of outdoor painting, known as plein air, had emerged. Thanks to new techniques, including oil paints in tubes, the new generation could gradually leave the studio behind to paint entire compositions outdoors. They set up their easels in forests, meadows, or along paths, creating works with quick brushstrokes in small formats that captured the magic of the moment. French plein air painting spread across Europe and the United States in the following decades, fundamentally transforming Western art. The auction features works by Helmer Osslund, Anna Boberg, Prins Eugen, and Carl Johansson.




Consignment is now open for our upcoming auction, Helsinki Spring Sale, online: 23 May – 1 June.
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