Norwegian Folk Costumes from Fane near Bergen, Tonsberg Edition, 1860s

Norwegian Rural Family in National Dress, Fane near Bergen, Antique Print

This charming 19th-century chromolithograph features a young Norwegian family in traditional dress from Fane (modern-day Fana), a district near Bergen on Norway’s western coast. The scene is warm and personal, showing a seated mother and father interacting lovingly with their small child in an idyllic outdoor setting. Behind them, a rustic wooden structure and a forested hillside complete the peaceful rural background.

The man is dressed in a blue coat with red trim over a green vest, white shirt, and black breeches. He wears a tall black hat and knee stockings, leaning gently toward the child with his arm extended. The woman wears a red bodice over a white blouse with puffed sleeves, a blue skirt, and a white apron with lacework. Her lace-trimmed bonnet is tied beneath her chin, and she gazes warmly toward the viewer while steadying the child on her lap. The child is dressed in a miniature version of traditional attire, with a white tunic and decorative vest.

This is Plate 7 from the important series Udvalgte Norske Nationaldragter, or Selected Norwegian National Costumes. The series was published by Chr. Tonsberg in Christiania (Oslo) and printed in Berlin by Winckelmann and Sonner. The original artwork is by Johan Fredrik Eckersberg, a leading figure in 19th-century Norwegian painting and a key contributor to the national romantic movement. The goal of the series was to preserve the regional diversity of Norwegian costume traditions through high-quality lithographic prints.

This plate stands out for its depiction of family life and everyday intimacy, making it especially appealing to collectors of ethnographic art and historical costume.

Condition:

Very good condition with vivid original colors and minor foxing near the bottom margin. Clean image area and strong impression.

Framing tips:

Frame in dark or medium wood to enhance the earthy tones. Use an ivory or soft grey mount to complement the clothing details. A great choice for family spaces or traditional interiors.