This charming early 19th-century oil painting depicts a picturesque manor house in Folkärna, Dalarna, Sweden. A lake winds its way through the landscape towards two large properties, which are nestled into surrounding trees. It’s a warm Summer’s day and the artist has found an ideal spot to sketch the picturesque scenery.
The painting dates to 1820 and was once owned by the lithographer, Carl Johan Billmark (1804-1870). It seems, from the inscription on the reverse, that he purchased it at the age of 16 - presumably to aid his studies.
The original artist is unknown but they clearly had some training given the quality of the composition. The tree on the right coupled with the two trees on the left provide a framing tool, which guides the eye along the water. The first manor house then arrives into view and becomes the star of the show.
The painting is inscribed on the reverse and framed.
Learn more about the painting's former owner, Carl Johan Billmark, in our directory.
Medium: Oil on board laid on canvas
Overall size: 17½” x 14½” / 45cm x 37cm
Year of creation: c. 1820
Condition: Frame with some age-related wear but otherwise fine.