Pastoral Elegance: Ulrik Thersner's 1824 Aquatint Of Djursholm Castle

This beautiful original hand-colored antique print, made by Ulrik Thersner in 1824, is a fine example of his work. Thersner, known for his detailed and atmospheric landscapes, would have drawn this view of Djursholm Castle with great care, capturing not only the architectural features of the castle but also the surrounding natural landscape and pastoral life, as seen in the foreground with figures and livestock.

The aquatint technique allowed Thersner to produce gradations of tone that give the print a remarkable depth and a lifelike quality, a characteristic that was particularly prized in the early 19th century for the way it mimicked the subtleties of watercolor paintings.

The composition of the print, with the castle situated amidst the verdant trees and the inclusion of human and animal figures, creates a harmonious balance between the built environment and the natural world, reflecting the romantic sensibilities of the time. The view "from the S.E. angle" provides a unique perspective of the castle, emphasizing its prominence and setting within the landscape.

As a historical document, the print serves as a valuable visual record of Djursholm Castle and its environs in the early 1800s. As an artwork, it stands as a testament to Thersner's skill as an artist and his contribution to the tradition of Swedish topographical art.

More about the maker:

Ulrik Thersner was a multifaceted individual, having an impactful military career alongside his work as a draftsman and topographer. Born on April 2, 1779, in Kyrkslätt parish in Finland, Thersner began his military service early, becoming a ship's boy in the Swedish navy at the tender age of seven. His naval service during Gustav III's Russian War marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the military.

In 1794, he advanced to the rank of sergeant in the Army's fleet and was appointed as an ensign five years later. His career took a significant turn in 1804 when he was appointed information officer at the Gothenburg squadron, a role that involved hydrographic measurements in Bohuslän.

Thersner's military engagements were diverse and geographically spread; in 1807, he transitioned to the Field Survey Corps, where he became a lieutenant in 1808. His expertise in surveying was put to use during the Finnish War, where he was involved in operations in Åland and battles at Sävar and Ratan. By 1810, Thersner had risen to the rank of captain and contributed to the border delineation between Sweden and Russia.

His membership in the Royal Academy of Military Sciences in 1811 further affirmed his academic and professional stature. During the war of 1813-14, Thersner held various commands and notably led the engineering efforts during the siege of Glückstadt.

Promoted to major in the Field Survey Brigade in 1814, Thersner post-war undertook triangulation measurements in Skåne from 1815 to 1817, demonstrating his proficiency in the practical applications of surveying and mapping. His retirement came in 1825, when he left the service with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Beyond his military service, Thersner is most renowned for his authorship of "Fordna och närvarande Sverige" (Antiquity and Present Sweden), a work that illustrated Swedish estates and landscapes, reflecting both his artistic talent and his technical skills as a surveyor and cartographer. Thersner's artistic endeavors served as a historical record and a tribute to Sweden's cultural and geographic landscapes.

Thersner's life came to an end on September 2, 1828, in Västerås, Sweden. His dual legacy as a dedicated military officer and as an artist who meticulously recorded Sweden's geographical beauty ensures his enduring place in Swedish history.

More about the Castle:

Djursholm is located in Danderyd Municipality, within Stockholm urban area. The castle includes building components from the late Middle Ages. It was the main building on the estate Djursholm, which was owned by the House of Banér from 1508 to 1813. Nils Eskilsson (Banér), who was lord of Djursholm 1508 to 1520, built a new palace at the place where Djursholm Castle remains.

Djursholm Castle was the residence of both Privy Councillour Gustaf Banér and his son, Field Marshal Johan Banér. Svante Gustavsson Banér gave the castle its present appearance in the 17th century. By the mid 17th century the castle was its present size. The main hall was fitted at this time, with plaster ceilings, stairs castle was of limestone and oak, and walls hung with art wallpaper full of gilt leather (leather wallpaper) and other materials.

Condition report:

GoodGood. Some soiling and brownish spots due to age and handling, mostly out of the plate mark in the marges and not in the image itself. Please study the images carefully.

Additional dimensions information:

Height: 15.75 in Width: 21.26 in Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)