Anders Zorn, “Lavards Anders”, 1919

Anders Zorn (also known as Anders Leonard Zorn) (1860–1920)

“Lavards Anders” (also known as “Dalecarlian Peasant [Lavards Anders])”— portrait of a peasant from Dalecarlia, Zorn's native provincial region in Sweden, 1919

Commentary on the Subject:

The Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa) offers a compelling insight into this portrait: “This small but powerful etching is both a portrait and a 'type': meet Lavards Anders, a peasant of Delacarlia, the provincial region of Sweden where Anders Zorn grew up - in poverty - and returned to - in triumph and fame. The peasant is elderly; we sense that he has seen much and has suffered not a little. In another guise or mood, his splendid mutton-chop whiskers and fur hat would look endearing, even comical. Not so here: he stares balefully straight at Zorn - and at us. Zorn is depicting death. Within a year, he himself would die prematurely, overweight, and allegedly alcoholic and syphilitic. The considerably older peasant will outlive him, and he knows it. There is no room for symbolist ethereality, charm or beauty in this etching, which shows no diminution in Zorn's powers” (https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/36798).

Technical Details & Condition:

An etching printed on fine buff-coloured laid paper, signed in pencil by the artist at the lower right. The impression is strong, crisp, and evenly printed. Aside from minor toning around the image, the sheet remains in excellent condition—free of tears, holes, abrasions, or significant stains.

Dimensions:

• Sheet: 37.5 x 26.2 cm
• Platemark: 15.4 x 11.4 cm

In-Plate Lettering:

• Upper-left: “LAV[A]RDS ANDERS”
• Lower-left: [Artist’s monogram] “Zorn”

References:

• Asplund 283; Hjert & Hjert 168; Lidbeck ZG 283
• Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa): Registration Number 1952-0003-182
• Art Institute of Chicago: Reference Number 1971.908 (https://www.artic.edu/artworks/37857/dalecarlian-peasant-lavards-anders)

Price & Shipping:

AU$662 (approx. US$459.05 / €402.45 / £343.03), including worldwide express shipping. Import duties and taxes (if applicable) are the buyer’s responsibility.

To acquire this rare pencil-signed etching, please contact oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I am happy to provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless and protected transaction.

This print has been sold