These two paintings are the foundation of a collection belonging to the
Scandinavian Art Society, and deposited in the Institute. The figure of
the old peasant is instinct with character. The complex planes of the
weather-beaten face and gnarled hands are established with the minimum of
means. The painting by Fjaestad owes its fascination mainly to the almost
Chinese sense of style and pattern. The movement of the water’s swirling
lines is interesting, well schemed, and perfectly balanced.
[Mother and Children. Josef Israels, 1824-1911]