Cubist City

A large, striking mid-century Swedish townscape by Bror Ingemar Fröberg, signed and dated 1950.

Viewed from above, a cluster of rooftops and buildings unfolds across the canvas in overlapping planes of terracotta, dusty rose, ochre, warm grey and muted olive green. The tightly arranged architecture creates a wonderful sense of rhythm, with the houses almost merging into an abstract patchwork of colour and form.

The painting has a distinctly modernist character, with Cubist influences evident in its simplified shapes and angular composition. Broad, confident brushstrokes define the buildings, while thick, expressive passages of paint give the rooftops an almost sculptural quality. In contrast, flatter areas of olive green allow the texture of the canvas to show through.

Particularly beautiful are the small touches of pale peach and cream, applied generously to suggest sunlit façades and architectural details. Rather than describing every window or roof tile, Fröberg uses a few carefully placed marks to capture the character of the town.

A substantial and wonderfully atmospheric painting, with a sophisticated earthy palette and an understated yet powerful presence. Equally suited to contemporary and traditional interiors.

Oil on canvas mounted on board by Bror Ingemar Fröberg (Sweden, 1921-1999), signed and dated 1950.

Dimensions 67 × 87 cm framed.