Johannes S. Kjarval (b. Efri-Ey 1885, d. Reykjavik 1972)
“Fjölnismenn”, Iceland. Signed J.S. Kjarval. Oil on canvas. 85×105 cm.
Provenance: Manufactor, art collector and patron of the arts Ragnar í Smára (Ragnar Jónsson, 1904–1984), Iceland. Provenance: Private collection, Iceland.
The title and the following description is based on the knowledge of the owner at present:
“The figure group 'Fjölnismenn' consists of the four men: Brynjólfur Pétursson (lawyer), Jónas Hallgrímsson (poet and nature scientist), Konráð Gíslason (linguist) and Tómas Sæmundsson (theologist and priest). They studied at the University of Copenhagen together from around 1830 and published the paper 'Fjölnir' (thus the name 'Fjölnismenn”' promoting Icelandic art and culture as well as the fight for Icelandic independence. It is only a theory that the picture depicts the 'Fjölnismenn' but Jónas Hallgrímsson and the mountain peak (the background of his birthplace) are instantly recognizable".
Condition report on request. Please contact: modernart@bruun-rasmussen.dk
Please note: The item is subject to the Anti-Money Laundering Act. In the event of a hammer price of DKK 50,000 or more, including buyer’s premium, the buyer must submit a copy of a valid photo ID and proof of address in order to collect the item.
Paintings and sculptures, 4 December 2019