This picturesque mid-20th-century oil painting by Danish artist Carlo Hornung-Jensen (1862-1960) depicts a rural view within the district of Søllerød, Copenhagen.

It’s probably painted outdoors and it’s an area the artist particularly enjoyed.

Here we see a countryside track partially covered by fallen leaves in various Autumnal hues. The trees create a gentle canopy overhead with a small cottage buried into the scenery.

Søllerød is a village steeped in history and it’s perched on a hill to the south of Søllerød Lake. As it’s close to the busy streets of Copenhagen, it’s a popular escape for the middle classes who often acquire country homes here. It’s also attracted numerous artists over the years, particularly those studying at the Danish Academy. But for Carlo Hornung-Jensen, aside from its leafy views, Søllerød also carried an emotional attachment as it was home to his wedding in 1918 to wife Ellen.

The painting dates to 1945 when he also produced a view of the Søllerød church. Perhaps his wife’s family hailed from the area. The same year, he was granted the National Art scholarship, a prestigious accolade.

Signed/dated lower left and held within a 20th-century moulded frame.

Medium: Oil on panel
Overall size: 19” x 15” / 48cm x 38cm
Year of creation: 1945
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed on the reverse with ‘Søllerød’ and the date of 1945. Newspaper clipping with artist’s biography.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £5,000.