This early 20th-century oil on canvas by Danish artist Gudmund Stenersen (1863-1934) depicts a tranquil river landscape.
Tucked into a verdant valley rich with luscious green tones, the shimmering form of a quiet river disappears between trees. The water described with short impressionistic marks to capture reflections that flicker. This was Stenersen’s Norway, a place he loved - a far cry from the busy ateliers of Paris, where he’d trained some years earlier. Here, we see a culmination of his skills, a pared-back impressionistic touch coupled with a distinctive Norwegian spirit.
Together with Erik Werenskiold, Stenersen was an important contributor to the creation of a modern naturalistic style of landscape painting. One which embraced modernity, yet respected Norway’s rich artistic heritage and iconic scenery.
Note the clever use of darker objects towards the centre of the composition, which create a focal point and guide the eye.
Signed lower right and held within a later gilt frame.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 38” x 27½” / 89cm x 70cm
Year of creation: c. 1910
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £8,503
Gudmund Stenersen trained under Leon Bonnat and Fernand Cormonand. He exhibited at Werenskiold’s Autumn Exhibition. The National Gallery in Oslo holds examples of his works.
Learn more about Gudmund Stenersen in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
