This early 20th-century oil painting by Danish artist Alfred Broge (1870-1955) depicts a rustic courtyard with thatched cottage and seated woman.

Amidst the gritty and grimy changes of ever-advancing industrialisation, Broge’s works offered a sunlit glimpse at a more idyllic, sentimental time. One in which handicrafts were passed through the generations and simple rural lifestyles were cherished. These rose-tinted visions were popular among the Danish bourgeoisie who sought to celebrate the rich rural heritage of their homeland and decorate their walls with appropriate images. And as such, his paintings were often reproduced as postcards and prints to meet this demand.

His popularity and traditional style led to a successful 40-year career, during which he exhibited regularly at Charlottenborg Palace. He was also shown at numerous independent exhibitions across Denmark.

Signed/dated lower left and held within a coved gilt exhibition frame, which is probably original.

Learn more about Alfred Broge in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 28” x 27½” / 71cm x 70cm
Year of creation: 1924
Labels & Inscriptions: Label from art dealer Georg Kleis on reverse together with stock number.
Provenance: With Georg Kleis, art dealer, Copenhagen / Private collection, Denmark.
Condition: Assessed and approved by our conservator. Frame with light marks and signs of age.
Artist’s auction maximum: £10,375
Our reference: BRV1804