Meet the Specialist in Classical Art

Cecilia Berggren on the Nordic Light Captivating the World

Scandinavian painting from the 19th and early 20th centuries is gaining increasing international attention. Collectors and institutions worldwide are turning to the Nordic region, where light, atmosphere and interpretations of nature continue to captivate.

In recent years, Scandinavian painting has gained significant international recognition. Collectors, museums and institutions across the globe are increasingly drawn to the Nordic region, where art from the 19th and early 20th centuries offers a distinctive combination of light, mood and landscape interpretation.

At Stockholms Auktionsverk, this development is clearly reflected. Cecilia Berggren, Specialist in Classical Art, works daily to present this rich tradition to an international audience and describes a market in clear motion:

– Interest in Scandinavian painting is stronger than it has been for a long time. We see it both in sales and in the many international enquiries we receive. Nordic artists generate strong engagement, and their works are seen as both aesthetically compelling and relevant in the long term.

The Role of Light in Nordic Painting

A central aspect of Nordic painting is what is often referred to as “Nordic light” – a concept that appears both in art historical discourse and in today’s market.

– The light in the Nordic region is unique. It is clear, sometimes cool and often poetic. Our artists have developed a visual language in which light not only illuminates the subject, but also conveys emotion and presence. From the bright nights of summer to the muted tones of winter, it strongly resonates with an international audience, says Cecilia Berggren.

Global demand is also reflected in international contexts, such as TEFAF Maastricht, where Scandinavian works have been prominently featured and the qualities of Nordic light highlighted by leading galleries.

Consignments Now Open: The Curated Classics Sale

At the same time, consignments are now open for the spring auction The Curated Classics Sale at Stockholms Auktionsverk. The auction is one of the most important of the season for classical art, bringing together carefully selected works with a focus on quality, provenance and artistic excellence.

– This is an excellent opportunity to consign works. The market is strong, and we are seeing strong results for high-quality paintings, particularly within the Nordic category. Our ambition is to present each work at its very best and reach the right international audience, says Cecilia Berggren.