Gerhard Munthe: Norwegian pioneer of modernism

Abstract

Gerhard Munthe (1849-1929) is one of the most unique and important artists within the Art Nouveau movement and a significant contributor to its international diversity. His radical, abstract style based partly on old Norwegian folk art is today considered a precursor of twentieth-century modernism. Among Munthe's greatest achievements are his countless room decorations, of which the Holmenkollen Turisthotell (1896-98) in Oslo and Håkonshallen (1910-15) in Bergen are the most significant. A series of illustrations of old Norwegian ballads and fairy tales made in 1892-93 became the basis for a renewal of the decorative arts in Northern Europe, notably in the weaving industry. Munthe's work as a designer covers most fields within the decorative arts: tapestries, carpets, furniture, stained glass, silver, porcelain, wallpaper, wrought iron, book bindings, fonts and ex libris. The publication offers a review of Gerhard Munthe's proliferant production as a decorative artist and industrial designer, spanning almost thirty years.

Contents

Gerhard Munthe as a theoretician -- Early decorative art and design -- The fairy-tale watercolours -- Tapestry -- Book illustrations -- Private and public room decoration -- Decorative arts and design -- Håkonshallen Bergen -- Legacy.