Artwork

Storm

Storm, by Anders Zorn, ink, 1891
Storm, by Anders Zorn, ink, 1891

Storm is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Anders Zorn. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:"Zorn" lower right composition, in plate, artist's hand. "Zorn" lower right composition, in plate, artist's hand. "Zorn" lower right margin, graphite, artist's hand. Not dated. "II2819" lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. Verso: none.
Markings
Marked:"LRJ" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1760b). "National Gallery of Art" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 1932d). "Kön. Kupferstichcabinett Stuttgart" verso, black stamped ink, (Lugt 2323). "Dublette veräussert" verso, purple stamped ink. "[illeg.]" verso, black stamped ink. "Kön. Kupferstichcabinett Stuttgart" verso, purple stamped ink, (Lugt 2323).

About this work

Overview

Created in 1891, this etching by Swedish artist Anders Zorn portrays a horse and rider caught in a fierce storm. Rendered on Van Gelder laid paper, the image conveys swift motion as the animal gallops across a darkened landscape, while the rider clutches the reins, confronting the elements head‑on.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a lone equestrian figure navigating a turbulent sky. The horse’s extended limbs and the rider’s tense posture suggest perseverance against nature’s force, evoking themes of human resolve and the struggle to maintain control amid chaos.

Technique & Style

Zorn employed traditional intaglio methods, incising the scene into a copper plate before printing on high‑quality Van Gelder paper. The etching’s strong line work and stark contrasts of light and shadow create a dramatic atmosphere, while the limited tonal range emphasizes the storm’s oppressive mood.

History & Provenance

First issued shortly after its completion in 1891, the print was circulated among Zorn’s collectors in Sweden and abroad. It remains documented in several museum collections, reflecting its continued relevance within the artist’s print oeuvre.

Context

During the late nineteenth century, Zorn explored a variety of media, including etching, to capture fleeting moments of movement. This work aligns with contemporary interests in realism and the depiction of natural forces, echoing broader European trends toward dynamic, narrative prints.

Storm (L'orage)
Storm (L'orage), Anders Zorn

Artist & collection

Portrait of Anders Zorn

Artist

Anders Zorn

Anders Leonard Zorn was a Swedish artist who attained international success as a painter, sculptor, and etching artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Storm?

Storm was painted by Anders Zorn in 1891.

Where can I see Storm?

Storm is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Storm?

Storm is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Storm?

Museum-quality prints of Storm are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.