carl larsson

*Woman Lying on Bench* (1913)

Carl Larsson

Swedish Artist/Illustrator~ b. in Stockholm

His parents were extremely poor and his childhood a misery. His father was a casual labourer and an abusive alcoholic. The family moved from rooming house to rooming house; when Carl was thirteen he was encouraged by a teacher to apply for a scholarship to the 'Swedish Academy of Arts.' There he eventually, gained confidence and upon graduation, became an illustrator for various magazines and news papers. He moved to Paris in 1877, worked for several years but was not eager to follow the 'Impressionist Movement.' However, he met his future wife there, Karin Bergoo, a designer and artist. They returned to Sweden, married and moved to 'Little Hyttnas' in 'Sundborn.' They had eight children together and this is when and where he painted his most important works. He and Karin were extremely happy and Carl continued to paint his family and surroundings, until his failing eyesight prohibited him from painting. He is considered to be one of Sweden's greatest artists and the house is currently a museum filled with his beautiful paintings.

1853 - 1919

via {under the white oak tree}