Gabriel Strandberg (1885-1966) - Landscape from the West of Norrland, 1911

Gabriel Strandberg (1885-1966) Sweden

Landscape from the West of Norrland, 1911

oil on canvas
signed and dated Gabriel Strandberg 1911
unframed 47 x 75.5 cm
framed 63 x 91.5 cm

Provenance:
A Swedish private collection.

Condition:
Very good condition. Recently restored by our art conservator in Stockholm. Please contact us for more information.


Essay:
We are delighted to present this landscape painting by the Swedish artist, Gabriel Strandberg (1885-1966). While the exact location is still unknown, the beauty and characteristics of the scene suggest the northern terrains of Sweden, possibly the areas around Örnsköldsvik or Härnösand.

Your gaze is immediately captured by a breathtaking foreground of rugged cliffs interspersed with stately pines. The centerpiece of this composition is the blue water, reflecting the forest behind and the serene clouds above. In the distance we can see a small village with a church, and to the right, a long building in shades of pink and orange, Its origins and purpose remain a mystery, though speculations lean towards a former military regiment.

The tableau is marked by profound tranquility and distinguished by vivid hues that breathe life into every detail. The artwork's creation in 1911 is significant, coinciding with the year Strandberg exhibited at the International Art Show in Rome, sharing the spotlight with giants like Anders Zorn, Stefan Johansson, Helmer Osslund, Bror Lind, and John Bauer. While it remains unclear if this particular painting graced the Roman exhibition, a contemporary review from the 'Idun' newspaper hints at its potential lineage: “Gabriel Strandberg and Helmer Osslund enlivened the color tone, but Bror Lind and Otto Hesselbom were considered masters of lines and mood tones.” The influence of Hesselbom and Lind, with their pronounced line work, is evident in the distinct outlines accentuating the trees, water, and vegetation in our painting.

While Gabriel Strandberg's legacy as a painter and draftsman is deeply etched in historical records, he remains an under-appreciated master in today's art world.