Artwork

Gustaf Adolf Reuterholm (1756-1813), friherre, överkammarherre, en av Rikets Herrar, president

Gustaf Adolf Reuterholm (1756-1813), friherre, överkammarherre, en av Rikets Herrar, president is a gouache painting by the Biedermeier artist Anton Oechs. It is held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Anton Oechs painted this portrait in 1803, portraying Gustaf Adolf Reuterholm, a Swedish nobleman who held the titles friherre, överkammarherre and president of the nation. The work is executed on ivory and is part of the Nationalmuseum’s collection in Stockholm.

Subject & Meaning

The figure stands in a white robe edged with red crosses, his expression solemn. He grips a sword and is positioned beside a large black cauldron marked with a cross, surrounded by martial items such as a helmet, shield and basket, suggesting his military and administrative authority.

Technique & Style

Rendered in a realistic manner, Oechs emphasizes texture and colour, from the sheen of the sword to the matte darkness of the background. The contrast between the bright white garments and the deep shadows draws the viewer’s focus to the central figure and his accoutrements, creating a grave atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created shortly after Reuterholm’s death in 1813, the portrait remained in private hands before being acquired by the Nationalmuseum. Its medium, ivory, reflects a practice of the early nineteenth century where small, finely detailed works were often produced for elite patrons.