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Anders Zorn 1860-1920

nders Zorn (1860-1920) occupies an enviable place in art history. His name is invariably included in an illustrious quartet of late nineteenth-century/early twentieth century masters of the art of premier coup (direct stroke) oil technique. The four names which are customarily linked are: John Singer Sargent (American), Joaquin Sorolla (Spanish), Giovanni Boldini (Italian) and Zorn (Scandinavian). Legion were (and are) the painters who have attempted this very difficult and demanding technique, but these four, working contemporaneously, were the standard-bearers of the discipline in their era.

Zorn's work is always exciting. His draftsmanship is superb. His brushwork is fresh, direct and animated. His compositions are frequently unconventional. For the working artist who needs inspiration to free his hand from hesitation and restraint, Zorn is the perfect artist to study. Here are four examples of his brilliant work, all self-portraits:

3. Self-Portrait in a Red Suit, 1915 Zorn's international reputation rests on the strong realism of his work, achieved by a vigorous bold simplicity. (Note the window, achieved with a very few direct, slashing brushstrokes.) The unusual red suit is rendered with extraordinary simplicity, but with utterly convincing realism. Click portrait to enlarge. Oil on canvas, 47 x 35 inches (120cm x 90 cm) page 1 2 3 4