This charming mid-20th-century oil painting by Swedish artist Gustaf Magnusson (1890-1957) depicts two female friends sitting at a table within a tastefully decorated interior. Magnusson was a celebrated painter and engraver, predominantly known for portraits and scenes.

Dressed in blue and beige, she’s absorbed in her craft - occasionally glancing across the table towards a young lady in green. Her friend is reading, maybe engrossed in a novel or studying a paper ahead of an exam. The scene is rendered exceptionally well with careful attention to the various light effects - note the reflections from the chairs and the various folds in the outfits. The composition is a challenging one, yet delivered with finesse.

Born in Stockholm, Magnusson was a respected contributor to the Swedish art scene. Following his schooling, he trained at the Royal Swedish Academy before heading further afield to broaden his experience. He studied next in Denmark, Norway, Germany and Italy to cap an extensive academic record.

An accomplished portraitist, his efforts culminated in several commissions from the Swedish Royal Family including portraits for both King Gustav VI Adolf and Prince Eugen. In addition, he produced several large-scale paintings for public buildings, such as the concert hall in Gothenburg.

As he grew older, his finest works were often those produced within quiet domestic settings - impromptu passing moments preserved for eternity. With a combination of keen draughtsmanship and harmonious tones, he elevated these candid vignettes to a level worth treasuring.

He’s represented at the Nationalmuseum, the Moderna Museet, the British Museum, and the Uffizi in Florence.

Signed in the lower left and framed.

Learn more about Gustaf Magnusson in our directory.

Medium: Oil on wood
Overall size: 29” x 25” / 74cm x 63cm
Year of creation: 1941 
Provenance: Private collection, Malmö, Sweden.
Condition: Cleaned. Frame in good condition with minor age-related wear.
Our reference: BRV2029