Alma Andreasson-Wenchert and Sigrid Hjertén

Hand woven in wool and silk with linen warp. Cotton backing. 
Signed: 'AA SH 1907 HV'.

Provenance:
Axel and Lilly Ahlmark, Hagalund Manor, Stjärnhov;

Carpets

Tapestry

History:
Sigrid Hjertén, born in Sundsvall in 1885 to Svante and Maria Hjertén, faced early loss with the passing of her mother when she was just two and a half years old. Her father, a lawyer, subsequently married Tora Östberg, sister to the renowned architect Ragnar Östberg, known for iconic structures such as Stockholm City Hall. The family relocated to Stockholm in 1897, where Sigrid's connection with Östberg deepened. In Stockholm, Sigrid pursued her studies at the Higher School of Arts, Crafts, and Design, focusing on textiles.

Sigrid occasionally collaborated with Östberg's architectural office, contributing to various projects. Notably, her marquetry work featured in a furniture piece designed by Östberg, as evidenced by records from 'Kulturen' archives in Lund. Furthermore, a tapestry adorned with plant motifs, designed by Sigrid and woven in 1907, is documented in these archives. It's noted that Mr. Ahlmark, a collaborator of Ragnar Östberg in the design of Stockholm City Hall, owned this tapestry.

Literature
Cavalli-Björkman, Görel, 'Woman in the Avant-Garde: Sigrid Hjertén: Life and Work', Albert Bonniers (Stockholm) 2017, p. 21-22.