Lilla Hellesen

Lilla Hellesen (1902 to 1963) was a Norwegian printmaker and draughtswoman. Born in Kristiania, she studied at the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry and the Academy of Fine Arts in Oslo.

Subjects and expression

Hellesen is particularly associated with lithographs in which people and landscapes create a romantic, dreamlike atmosphere. Figures, nature and light provide useful points of comparison with documented works.

Exhibitions and collections

An exhibition at Kunstnernes Hus in spring 1963 included 67 lithographic works. It was her last exhibition. Her international presence is illustrated by the lithograph “Norwegian landscape”, dated 1932, which the Contemporary Art Society purchased in 1933 and presented to the British Museum in 1934. The sheet is signed, dated, titled and numbered 24/26.

Identifying a print

Record the signature precisely, together with the title, numbering, technique and image dimensions. Compare the actual image with museum records and reliable references. A familiar artist’s name on a frame or backing alone does not establish authorship.

When assessing condition, examine the paper, edges and areas beneath the mount, as well as the glass and frame. Framing can conceal parts of the sheet. Photographs of the signature and numbering should show both the detail and its position on the print.

Sources: Kunstnernes Hus: Lilla Hellesen; Norsk kunstnerleksikon: Lilla Hellesen; Contemporary Art Society: Norwegian landscape (1932).