Oscar Björck

1860 - 1929

Quick Facts

  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Copyright status: Public domain
  • Also known as:
    • Oscar Gustaf Björck
    • Gustaf Oskar Bjork
    • Gustaf Oscar Björck
    • Gustav Oskar Bjorck
    • オスカル・ビョルク
  • Died: 1929
  • Works on APS: 35
  • Color intensity:
    • monochromatic
    • balanced
  • Nationality: Sweden

The Life and Academic Career of Oscar Björck

Born in Stockholm City, Sweden, Oscar Björck was a painter who studied under Edvard Perséus at the Academy from 1877 to 1882. During his time as a student, he produced works such as Loke fängslas af asarne (Loki imprisoned by Æsir) (1880), Gustaf Vasa inför kung Hans (Gustaf Vasa before King Hans) (1881), and Den förlorade sonens återkomst (Return of the prodigal son) (1882), the latter of which was awarded the Royal Medal. Following a travel scholarship in 1883, he spent time in Paris and Munich, where he painted portraits including a full-length painting of his wife. His travels continued to Venice and Rome, resulting in works like Susanna and Romerska smeder (Roman blacksmiths).

Björck eventually settled in Stockholm in 1888, where he focused on portraiture. His notable subjects included King Oscar, Prince Eugen, and Crown Prince Gustaf. Beyond his studio work, he held significant academic roles, becoming a member of the Academy and its teaching staff in 1889, and later serving as a professor in 1898. He also served as Commissar for Art for several major exhibitions, including the Stockholm Exposition in 1897 and the Swedish exhibition in London in 1924.

Artistic Works and Skagen Summers

Björck's artistic output included a variety of genres, from landscapes and genre scenes to decorative paintings. His time spent in Skagen, Denmark, during the summers of 1882, 1883, and 1884, was particularly significant. During these stays, he became part of the local artists' community and produced some of his best paintings. He is also famously depicted in P.S. Krøyer's painting Hip, Hip, Hurrah! (1888), shown drinking champagne in the Anchers' garden.

His portfolio includes several notable pieces such as:

Questions & Answers

What are the birthplace and birth year of Oscar Björck?

Oscar Björck was born in Stockholm City in 1860.

What aliases or alternate names does Oscar Björck have?

Oscar Björck appears under the alternate names Oscar Gustaf Björck, Gustaf Oskar Bjork, Gustaf Oscar Björck, Gustav Oskar Bjorck, オスカル・ビョルク.

Can I browse Oscar Björck's works by color palette?

Oscar Björck's works can be browsed by color palette on the artist's By Palettes page.

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
In which city was Oscar Björck born?
Question 2:
Which artist encouraged Björck to go to Skagen in 1882?
Question 3:
In which year did Björck become a professor at the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts?
Question 4:
Which of these works was awarded the Royal Medal?
Question 5:
Where did Björck paint the large portrait of Susanna?