Artwork

Arrival of Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen and Lemminkäinen at Pohjola

Arrival of Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen and Lemminkäinen at Pohjola, by Joseph Alanen, tempera, 1912
Arrival of Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen and Lemminkäinen at Pohjola, by Joseph Alanen, tempera, 1912

Arrival of Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen and Lemminkäinen at Pohjola is a tempera painting by the Symbolist artist Joseph Alanen. It dates from 1912 and is held in the collection of the Finnish National Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Arrival of Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen and Lemminkäinen at Pohjola is a tempera painting by Joseph Alanen, dated circa 1912, part of the Ateneum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene from Finnish mythology, showing the arrival of three legendary figures—Väinämöinen, Ilmarinen, and Lemminkäinen—at Pohjola. The composition focuses on the three main figures in the foreground, with additional figures in the background.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold lines, simple geometric shapes, and muted color palette (dominated by blues, greens, and browns), the work exhibits a distinctive, elegant simplicity.

History & Provenance

Created around 1912 by Joseph Alanen, the painting is currently housed at the Ateneum.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph Alanen

Artist

Joseph Alanen

Joseph Alanen (1885–1920) was an artist, born in Tampere.