Antti, Hand Against Cheek
A hand-painted replica of Venny Soldan-Brofeldt’s masterpiece Antti, Hand Against Cheek, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Venny Soldan-Brofeldt was a Finnish artist known for her contributions to the Golden Age of Finnish Art, a period marked by national romanticism and a burgeoning sense of Finnish identity in the arts. One of her notable works is "Antti, Hand Against Cheek," which exemplifies her skill in capturing intimate and contemplative moments.
Venny Soldan-Brofeldt was born on November 2, 1863, in Helsinki, Finland. She was part of a prominent family, with her sister Tilly Soldan also being a recognized artist. Venny studied art in Helsinki and later in Paris, where she was influenced by the prevailing art movements of the time, including realism and impressionism. Her exposure to these styles is evident in her work, which often combines detailed observation with a softer, more emotive touch.
"Antti, Hand Against Cheek" is a portrait that reflects Soldan-Brofeldt's ability to convey mood and character through subtle details. The painting depicts a young boy named Antti, who is shown in a moment of introspection, with his hand resting against his cheek. This pose, combined with the boy's thoughtful expression, invites viewers to ponder what might be going through his mind. The composition is simple yet effective, focusing on the subject without any distracting background elements.
Soldan-Brofeldt's use of color and light in this painting is noteworthy. She employs a muted palette, which enhances the contemplative atmosphere of the piece. The gentle play of light across Antti's face and hand adds depth and dimension, highlighting the textures of his skin and hair. This attention to detail is characteristic of Soldan-Brofeldt's work and demonstrates her keen observational skills.
Throughout her career, Soldan-Brofeldt was known for her portraits, which often featured children and women. Her ability to capture the essence of her subjects made her a sought-after portraitist in Finland. In addition to her portraits, she also created landscapes and genre scenes, which further showcased her versatility as an artist.
Venny Soldan-Brofeldt was married to the writer Juhani Aho, and the couple was part of a vibrant artistic community in Finland. Their home was a gathering place for artists, writers, and intellectuals, fostering a creative environment that undoubtedly influenced Soldan-Brofeldt's work. Despite the challenges faced by women artists during her time, she managed to carve out a successful career and left a lasting impact on Finnish art.
"Antti, Hand Against Cheek" remains an important work within Soldan-Brofeldt's oeuvre, illustrating her ability to blend technical skill with emotional depth. The painting is a testament to her talent and her contribution to the cultural landscape of Finland during a pivotal period in its history. Today, her works are appreciated for their artistic merit and their role in the development of Finnish national identity in the arts.














