Artwork

Suomenlinnan rakentamisen ajalta, Thunbergin mylly

Suomenlinnan rakentamisen ajalta, Thunbergin mylly, by Elias Martin, unspecified, 1788
Suomenlinnan rakentamisen ajalta, Thunbergin mylly, by Elias Martin, unspecified, 1788

Suomenlinnan rakentamisen ajalta, Thunbergin mylly is an unspecified painting by Elias Martin. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the Finnish National Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Suomenlinnan rakentamisen ajalta, Thunbergin mylly is a landscape painting created by Swedish artist Elias Martin around 1788, depicting a scene from the construction period of Suomenlinna, a fortress in Finland.

Subject & Meaning

The painting focuses on a mill, identified as Thunberg's mill, set amidst the construction activity of Suomenlinna. The emphasis on the mill highlights the artist's interest in capturing everyday life and the working aspects of the project.

Technique & Style

Elias Martin, known for his landscapes with romantic lighting, likely employed chiaroscuro in this work to create depth, contrasting light and dark areas to draw the viewer's eye through the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1788 by Elias Martin, a pivotal Swedish landscape painter and engraver from Stockholm, this work reflects his contribution to Swedish landscape art, though specific ownership history is not detailed here.

Context

Painted during the construction of Suomenlinna, the work provides a visual record of this significant historical project. The inclusion of Thunberg's mill underscores the importance of logistical support during the fortress's building.

Legacy

As part of Elias Martin's oeuvre, the painting contributes to his legacy as Sweden's first great landscape painter, though its individual impact on the broader art historical canon is not specifically outlined.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Elias Martin

Artist

Elias Martin

Elias Martin (8 March 1739 – 25 January 1818) was a Swedish genre, history, and landscape painter and engraver from Stockholm.