Solnedgång över havet (Sunset over the Sea)
Painting on panel or board • Anna Nordgren (Swedish, 1847–1916). Signed and dated 'A Nordgren 91' in the lower right.
Style & Movement
Swedish Impressionism / Plein-air Realism. The work reflects the late 19th-century Scandinavian interest in light, atmosphere, and the 'Blue Hour' sensibilities.
Medium & Technique
Oil paint, utilizing plein-air techniques with thick impasto brushwork, direct application (alla prima), and visible rapid strokes to capture transient light effects.
Creation Period
Late 19th Century, specifically 1891 (based on the inscription)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15 x 25 cm (excluding frame), landscape format. Small-scale study or 'esquisse'.
Subject Description
A vibrant maritime sunset where the sun is partially submerged at the horizon line. The composition is divided into horizontal registers: a deep blue sea in the foreground and a dramatic sky filled with orange and yellow light. God rays or crepuscular rays break through dark, heavy clouds, creating a sense of natural drama and spiritual resonance.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paint film appears stable with high saturation preserved. The gilt frame shows minor age-related wear and superficial abrasions.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely originated from a private Swedish collection; current presentation in a gallery or museum setting on a deep burgundy wall suggests recent exhibition history in a fine art institution.
Art Historical Significance
Anna Nordgren was a significant female artist of the Swedish avant-garde who studied in Paris. This work is an excellent example of her transition from academic realism to a more emotive, impressionistic style, reflecting the influence of the 'Opponents' group in Sweden.
Notable Features
Features a prominent and rare sunset theme within the artist's usually figurative-focused body of work. The specific use of bright cadmiums and yellows against the deep blue sea represents a sophisticated understanding of complementary color theory.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust and a slightly yellowed varnish layer. Tiny losses to the gilding on the frame edges and some slight cracking in the decorative gesso of the frame corners.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning and a light refresher varnish to remove dust. Display in UV-filtered light and maintain stable humidity (45-55%) to prevent panel warping.