This charming late-19th-century oil painting by Swedish artist Carl August Fahlgren (1819-1905) depicts the Hornsberg Sugar Factory in Stockholm. Fahlgren was an experienced 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.

Signed/dated in the lower left and held with a later frame.

Learn more about Carl August Fahlgren in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 44½” x 31” / 113cm x 79cm
Year of creation: 1883 
Provenance: Private collection, Sweden.
Condition: Cleaned. Revarnished. Craquelure in areas. Two old patches and corresponding in-painting. The paint layer is stable. Frame in excellent condition.
Our reference: BRV1925