Carl August Fahlgren was an experienced Swedish painter of landscapes and a generous friend of the artistic community.

Standing somewhat quaintly upon the shore of Ulvsundasjön Bay, several buildings are rendered in all their linear glory. They include the Hornsberg Sugar Factory, which is housed in an 18th-century structure originally designated as a textile mill. Produced in 1883, this work captures the factory seven years before its demolition and it’s possibly the last remaining painting of its type.

Born in Norrtälje, Sweden, Fahlgren’s early years were spent working as a sales assistant before he opened his own store in Stockholm, from which he sold an array of exotic spices. His father, Johan Adolph Fahlgren, was a baker and presumably inspired the young man to pursue an independent career in retail.

Around 1850, evidently captivated by the evolving art scene, he undertook lessons with the portrait/landscape painter Andreas Fornander (1820-1903), while maintaining his role at the shop. A few years later, he travelled with the artist Gustaf Carleman (1821-1911) to Denmark, Germany, and France and produced numerous sketches for later inspiration.

Fahlgren was passionate about the arts and relished the time spent among his artistic peers. His acquaintances included August Blanche and Johan Gabriel Carlén, along with various members of the creative literati. Each of these equally treasured his company, which is evidenced by an obituary describing his “cheerful and peaceful manner”, “attractive personality”, and “large circle of friends”.

Throughout his career, his approach to landscape painting remained seemingly unaltered and he tackled each view with neatness and industriousness. As an amateur, he worked without the pressure of a paycheck and, as such, he painted anything that took his fancy. Coastal views with picturesque cottages, lakeside windmills, along with numerous bits of notable architecture, as we see here.

In 1890, as recognition for his dedication to the arts, he was elected a member of the Swedish Artists' Association. He’s represented at Stockholm’s Nationalmuseum.

Public Collections

Nationalmuseum, Stockholm City Museum.

Timeline

1819

Born in Norrtälje, Sweden, to Johan Adolph Fahlgren, a baker, and Anna Elisabeth Fahlgren (born Oman).

1833

Moved to Stockholm.

1833-1844

Worked as a sales assistant.

1844

Opened a shop selling spices, which he ran until the early 1870s.

Studied at the Art Academy under Andreas Fornander (1820-1903).

1854

Undertook study trips to Denmark, Germany, and France with the artist Gustaf Carleman (1821-1911).

1862

Married Augusta Helena Anton in Stockholm.

1866

Became a member of the Artists' Club.

1890

Became a member of the Swedish Artists' Association.

1905

Died in Stockholm, Sweden.