
1865–1931 · Finnish · 19 artworks
artist bio
Akseli Gallen-Kallela was a Finnish painter who is best known for his illustrations of the Kalevala, the Finnish national epic. His work was instrumental in defining Finnish national identity and helped to promote Finnish art internationally.
what you'll learn
Studying Gallen-Kallela's work allows students to explore the intersection of national identity, mythology, and artistic style. Students can learn about narrative painting, symbolism, and the use of color to convey emotion and meaning.
related: Edvard Munch, Ferdinand Hodler, Gustav Klimt

The Defense of the Sampo
1896

Lemminkäinen's Mother
1897

The Lair of the Lynx
1906

Old Woman With a Cat
1885

Mt. Donia Sabuk
1909

View from North Quay
1891

The Great Black Woodpecker
1893

Parisienne
1888

Shepherd Boy from Paanajärvi
1892

Imatra in Winter
1893

Ad Astra
1907

Rustic Life
1887

Study
1889

The Fratricide
1897

Le depart de Väinämöinen
1906

Mäntykoski Waterfall
1893

Marie Gallén at the Kuhmoniemi-bridge
1890

By the River of Tuonela, study for the Jusélius Mausoleum frescos
1903

Lake Keitele
1905