Anders Zorn is considered to be one of Sweden’s greatest artists and, today, his works are held in many of the world’s leading public collections. He was a precocious talent who impressed from an early age.
He studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Art in Stockholm and was soon commissioned by many of Stockholm’s notable dignitaries. Following this, he travelled extensively and achieved international success - with portraits including three American presidents.
Today he’s represented in the Musée d'Orsay, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
1860
Born in Mora, Sweden to Leonhard Zorn and Grudd Anna Andersdotter. Anders never met his mother and was raised by his grandparents.
1875
Enrolled at the Royal Academy of Arts, Stockholm.
1881
Met his future wife, Emma Lamm. At this point, Zorn’s financial situation wasn’t acceptable for Emma’s family who were considerably more wealthy. So he moved abroad to study and build a career.
Travelled primarily to England and Spain. Spent most summers back in Sweden.
1885
Married Emma Lamm.
1885-1896
Lived abroad - mainly in England and Paris.
1887-1888
Spent the winter in St Ives, Cornwall, UK. This is seen as a turning point as he began to paint in oils rather than watercolours.
1888
Exhibited ‘A Fisherman in St Ives’ at the Paris Salon, which was bought by the State.
1888-1896
Settled in Paris.
Began painting nudes in outdoor settings. A subject he would become recognised for.
1889
Exhibited at the World’s Fair, Paris. Awarded the Légion d'Honneur and produced a self-portrait for the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
1893
Exhibited at the Columbian World Fair, Chicago - his first trip to the US. This was an important moment as he returned to the States several times thereafter.
1896
Moved back to Mora, Sweden, and funded a high school for the local community. Both Anders and his wife were proud of their heritage.
1899
Produced a portrait of US President Grover Cleveland and his wife Mrs Frances Cleveland.
1905
Produced an etching of US President Theodore Roosevelt.
1909
Produced a portrait of Queen Sophia.
1911
Produced a portrait of US President William Taft.
1920
Died in Mora, Sweden.