An unusual early 20th-century portrait of a bearded rabbi by Swedish artist, Johan Larentius Carolinus Leksell (1874-1932).

Leksell was born in Amsberg, Kopparberg County, and could turn his hand to a range of artistic endeavours. He was primarily known as one of Sweden’s most foremost silhouette portraitists, but he could also paint as well as sculpt.

Upon graduating University, Leksell financed a round trip to the United States by cutting silhouette photos for willing patrons. He then continued on to Russia where he created a silhouette of Rasputin that brought him much acclaim.

The portrait is signed on the right and housed within a frame that could be its original.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 19” x 26” / 48cm x 66cm
Year of creation: c. 1920
Provenance: Sweden
Condition: Very presentable. A few light scratches.