Den Fremmede Passager (from the Peer Gynt Suite)
Original lithograph and typography on heavy wove paper; illustrated book page. • Per Krohg (Norwegian, 1889–1965), though note post-mortem editions or related studio prints associated with the 1970 publication of Henrik Ibsen's Peer Gynt may be attributed to his late-stage designs.
Style & Movement
Modernist Expressionism; Echoes of Surrealism and the École de Paris.
Medium & Technique
Lithography using grease crayon and tusche wash; commercial typesetting for the dialogue text.
Creation Period
1970
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 32 x 25 cm (approx. 12.5 x 9.8 inches); Portrait format.
Subject Description
The illustration depicts the 'Strange Passenger' (Den fremmede passager) from Henrik Ibsen's play, Peer Gynt. The composition features a dark, chaotic, and skeletal-like figure rendered in expressionistic black ink, reflecting the existential dread of the scene where the passenger asks Peer if he has ever experienced 'the fear.'
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The paper maintains a bright white tone, though there is evidence of slight handling wear at the edges.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $200 USD
Provenance History
Likely sourced from a limited edition portfolio of Ibsen's 'Peer Gynt' published by Den norske Bokklubben or similar bibliophilic press in Oslo, circa 1970.
Art Historical Significance
Per Krohg was a pivotal figure in 20th-century Norwegian art. This work is significant as a bridge between high-modernist French aesthetics (where Krohg studied under Matisse) and quintessential Scandinavian literary heritage.
Notable Features
Includes original Norwegian text of the play dialogue between Peer Gynt and the Passenger. Numbered page '41' at the bottom center. Exceptional use of tusche wash to create a textured, ghostly effect.
Condition Issues
Minor edge rippling consistent with its removal from a bound volume; slight yellowing possible at extreme margins.
Conservation Recommendations
Mount using acid-free, archival hinges. Use UV-protective glass if framing to prevent fading of the lithographic ink and paper embrittlement.
Collector Notes
Peer gynt