Thiel Art Gallery: Nordic masterpieces
Nestled in the tranquil eastern end of Djurgården, the Thiel Art Gallery (Thielska Galleriet) is a hidden gem that offers an intimate encounter with Nordic art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau villa designed by architect Ferdinand Boberg, the gallery showcases the extensive collection of banker and art patron Ernest Thiel.
A collector’s vision
Ernest Thiel (1859–1947) was a prominent Swedish financier who transformed his passion for contemporary Nordic art into one of Sweden’s most significant private collections. In the early 1900s, he commissioned the construction of this elegant villa to house his growing assemblage. By 1926, the residence opened to the public as the Thiel Gallery, preserving his legacy as a patron of the arts.
The collection
The gallery boasts an impressive array of works by leading Nordic artists, including:
- Edvard Munch
- Anders Zorn
- Carl Larsson
- Bruno Liljefors
- Eugène Jansson
- August Strindberg
Visitors can explore rooms that retain their original early 20th-century décor, providing a unique ambiance that complements the artworks.
The Setting: Blockhusudden and the Villa
Perched at Blockhusudden—the serene eastern cape of Djurgården—the Thiel Gallery enjoys a picturesque setting where land meets the archipelago. This tranquil area, once a popular retreat for Stockholm’s elite, offers sweeping views of passing ferries and the lush, tree-lined coast. The gallery itself is surrounded by a peaceful sculpture garden, enhancing the contemplative experience of the art within. Designed by renowned architect Ferdinand Boberg, the villa blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings, offering visitors not only a cultural journey but also a moment of respite from the city’s bustle.
The Banker Who Collected a Generation
Visitor information
- 🕰️ Opening Hours:
- October–April: Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
- May–September: Tuesday–Wednesday, Friday–Sunday: 12:00 PM–5:00 PM, Thursday: 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
- 📍 Address: Sjötullsbacken 8, 115 25 Stockholm
- 🎟️ Admission: Entrance fee applies. Discounts available for students and seniors (65+). Children and youth under 18 enter free.
- 🎧 Guided tours: Upon request, included in admission.
- ☕ Café: The on-site café offers a selection of refreshments in a serene garden setting.
Thiel Art Gallery
Thielska galleriet
