Carl Larsson. Friends and Enemies is dedicated to one of Sweden’s best-known artists and the world in which he lived.
Carl Larsson (1853–1919) was born and raised in Stockholm where he also lived and worked during long periods of time. However, his relationship with his native city was ambivalent and he chose to make Dalarna his home. Carl Larsson. Friends and Enemies presents the image of a contradictory and difficult personality, a moody emotional being, close to both friendship and enmity. The twists and turns around Carl Larsson and his person throw a light on the social and cultural life around the turn of the century 1800/1900, with its political and artistic frontlines. The several portraits of his friends and commissioned portraits constitute a collection of characters, where members of Sweden’s contemporary cultural elite come forward to the viewer. The works depicting his home and own family presented a new interior design ideal but also a modern model of family and social life.

Carl Larsson. Friends and Enemies offers an introduction to a complicated man and a multifaceted artistry.