This spirited early 20th-century oil painting by Swedish artist Justus Lundegård (1860-1924) depicts a buoyant summertime view with a farm, field hand and buildings.
Lundegård’s joy is palpable - standing alongside a winding track, he’s consumed by nature’s beauty. Seeking not to embellish or enliven, he captures the view with its imperfections intact. A crooked track winds its way through a rickety gate, drawing the eye towards the bright facade of a timber-framed farmhouse. While the trees lean and stretch their branches as if breaking into song.
Note also Lundegård’s clever use of colour - the furthest tree is partially rendered in dark blue, which brings greater contrast to the white building in the distance.
Justus Lundegård was a pioneer who rallied against his formal academic education to pursue impressionism. This is a fine example of his animated use of colour, passion for light, and commitment to working outdoors.
Signed in the lower right.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 35½” x 23” / 90cm x 59cm
Year of creation: c. 1920
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £5,472
Justus Lundegård
Justus Lundegård studied initially with Edvard Perséus (1841-1890) and later at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts. He exhibited widely, including at the Paris Salon. His works are held in numerous public collections.
Learn more about Justus Lundegård in our directory.