This early 20th-century oil painting by Danish artist Jens Sørensen (1887-1953) depicts a lively scene at Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park.

Jens Sørensen was predominantly known for his expressive scenes - particularly those depicting Dyrehavsbakken, as it’s officially known, in Copenhagen. Inspired by the inter-war German expressionists, his works carry a certain naivety but are often enveloped in a sense of anxiousness. Linear figures are caught mid-hurry, gesticulating, or at times, looking directly at the viewer in confusion or suspicion. There’s playfulness combined with a contrasting element of world-worn experience. Edvard Munch (1863-1944) springs to mind.

Sørensen’s early years were taxing - with critics concerned by his inconsistencies. But by the 1920s, perhaps invigorated by his study trips to Paris and Berlin, his career gathered momentum. Numerous works from this period capture glimpses of life at this popular park. Colourful effervescent compositions with a palpable buzz. It’s located in woods near Copenhagen and has provided visitors with thrills for centuries. Its heady cocktail of sights, sounds, and dance, drawing crowds both young and old. Sørensen thrived here and his fascinating concoctions convey a dizzying atmosphere from an outsider’s perspective.

Sørensen trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen and his works were shown at the Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition. Admirers have compared him with German artists Max Beckmann (1884-1950) and Emil Nolde (1867-1956).

Signed in the lower left and framed.

Learn more about Jens Sørensen in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 24½” x 21½” / 62cm x 55cm
Year of creation: c. 1920
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, Sweden.
Condition: Assessed and approved by our conservator. Areas of craquelure but the paint layer is stable.
Artist’s auction maximum: £1,760
Our reference: BRV1797