Helene Schjerfbeck

Helene Schjerfbeck composed patterns for wall hangings, tablecloths and cushions for the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts in the early 20th century. The "Dance" tapestry was presented for the first time at the autumn exhibition of the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts in 1911 and in 1919 at the 40th anniversary exhibition of the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts.

This example for sale was purchased from the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts in the 1930s and has been passed down in the family ever since. The tapestry was located at the summer cottage at Porkala where their closest neighbours were Gösta and Bertha Stenman. Gösta Stenman was a leading figure and mentor of modern art in Finland, and he is particularly associated with the rediscovery of Helene Schjerfbeck. According to hearsay, Gösta Stenman was very fond of the artwork and tried to buy it several times, but the owner was not willing to sell it. That is why we are pleased to present it now.