This early 20th-century oil painting by Danish artist Viggo Pedersen (1854-1926) depicts a vibrant coastal view with cattle. It’s one of his later works and exemplifies his rhythmical approach to brushwork during this period.
Through the centre of the composition, a narrow track cuts through the grasses and between trees. While flowers are dotted as mere flickers and breakers appear as white daubs. An expanse of purple sea tumbles with energetic flashes. At every juncture, nature is described via deft marks applied with confidence. This is an artist at the peak of his abilities, unshackled by the rigours of Academy life and immersed in his work. It’s vigorous and topped with a rapid sky.
Pedersen was an important member of the Danish artistic community and worked tirelessly to evolve his style throughout his successful career. Over time, his brushwork became looser and more expressive, which brought him closer to the progressive European artists of his generation. In 1891, he co-founded Den Frie Udstilling (The Free Exhibition), established as a rebellion against the traditional views of the Danish Academy. Eminent contemporaries such as Vilhelm Hammershøi, Peder Severin Krøyer, Kristian Zahrtmann, Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh exhibited there.
This work is exemplary, the light reigns over all - with each element describing its various effects. A few years previous, he’d been to Italy and returned with an unswerving fascination for the sparkling Mediterranean skies. But nothing could usurp his heartfelt connection with rural Denmark.
Signed lower left and held within a gilt frame.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 33” x 29” / 84cm x 74cm
Year of creation: c. 1915
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. The stretcher has a bow to it. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £34,000
Viggo Pedersen trained at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts where he later became a member. His works are held in numerous public collections including museums in Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki.
Learn more about Viggo Pedersen in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
