This vibrant mid-20th-century oil painting by Danish artist Thorvald Nygaard (1892-1973) depicts a colourful canalside view in Christianshavn, Denmark.

Nygaard loved this area and often pitched his easel on various spots along its waterways. For much of the 20th century, Christianshavn, or King Christian's Harbour, was known as a traditional working-class neighbourhood. But by the 1970s, its eclectic atmosphere and colourful waterside properties, engendered a new sense of bohemian culture and a flourishing of the arts. Nygaard would’ve been immersed in this evolving scene and probably enjoyed the company of a wide circle of friends.

Here, we see his excitement for Christianshavn conveyed in broad expressive marks - with the water itself described in shimmering Monet-esque tints.

Did you know: We have another painting by Thorvald Nygaard in our collection.

Signed lower left and held in a 20th-century moulded frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 32” x 25” / 82cm x 64cm
Year of creation: c. 1950
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.

Thorvald Nygaard

Nygaard trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and exhibited at the prestigious Charlottenborg Exhibition.

Learn more about Thorvald Nygaard in our directory.