Ludvig Looström (1848–1922), Art Historian and Director General of the Nationalmuseum, 1908

Carl Larsson (1853 - 1919)

Artist/Maker

Artist: Carl Larsson (1853 - 1919)

DatesMade: Executed 1908

Material / Technique

Watercolour

Dimensionsh x w: Mått 37 x 51 cm h x w x d: Ram 61 x 76 x 3 cm

Inventory numberNMGrh 2240

Other titlesTitle (sv): Ludvig Looström (1848–1922), konsthistoriker, överintendent Nationalmuseum Title (en): Ludvig Looström (1848–1922), Art Historian and Director General of the Nationalmuseum, 1908 Previous: Ludvig Looström, 1848-1941

DescriptionDescription: Ludvig Looström wears a fez, a popular accessory in middle-class circles at the time. The portrait was a gift from friends on his 60th birthday. Larsson, perhaps jokingly, contrasts his unconventional pose with the exemplary order on the shelves behind him. Looström, the National- museum’s Director General from 1900 to 1915, had gained a reputation as a prolific and meticulous scholar. As a museum professional, he was seen more as a skilled administrator than as a great visionary.

Depicted Person

Ludvig Looström (1848 - 1941)

Collection

Paintings (Paintings)

MaterialWatercolour

TechniquePainting

External links

Wikidata: http://www.wikidata.org/entity/Q18580403

Additional texteDescription: Looström was the director of the Nationalmuseum in 1900–1915. During that period, Larsson created two monumental paintings for the Museum’s stairwell. When Gustav Vasa’s Entry into Stockholm was being painted (completed in 1908), Looström appeared as one of the artist’s most avid admirers. When he supported the rejection of Midwinter Sacrifice a few years later, it led to the end of their friendship. This portrait was made while they were still on a friendly footing. Looström is shown sitting in his office at the Museum, dressed in his famous round smoking cap.