Artwork

Tatila Civium

Tatila Civium, by Johan Pasch, oil, 1747
Tatila Civium, by Johan Pasch, oil, 1747

Tatila Civium is an oil painting by Johan Pasch. It dates from 1747 and is held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1747, *Tatila Civium* is an oil painting by Swedish artist Johan Pasch. The work is part of the Nationalmuseum’s holdings in Stockholm, where it is displayed among a broad range of European paintings. Pasch, active in the mid‑18th century, is known for both decorative painting and etching, and came from a family that included the architect Carl Pasch.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a seated male figure dressed in a red cloak and a white hat, his right hand gripping a sword. He rests upon a chair with a blue cushion edged in gold embroidery, suggesting a status of nobility or military rank. The portrait’s solemn pose and attire convey a sense of authority and ceremonial presence.

Technique & Style

Pasch employs a Baroque sensibility, using strong chiaroscuro to model the figure against a darker background. The contrast of light and shadow enhances the three‑dimensionality of the cloak and sword, while vivid reds and blues provide visual intensity. The brushwork is smooth, allowing the oil medium to render fine details in fabric and metal.

History & Provenance

The painting entered the Nationalmuseum’s collection, where it remains accessible to the public. Its provenance traces back to Pasch’s own workshop in Stockholm, reflecting the artist’s role within Sweden’s 18th‑century decorative arts scene. The work’s presence in the museum situates it among other Swedish and European artworks from the same period.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Johan Pasch

Artist

Johan Pasch

Johan Pasch (12 March 1706, Stockholm - 16 January 1769, Stockholm) was a Swedish painter, etcher and decorative artist.

Nationalmuseum

Museum

Nationalmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Nationalmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.