John-Erik Franzén (1942–2022) needs no lengthy introduction, but if a brief one is to be given, he was for several decades one of Sweden’s most influential visual artists. His photorealistic motorcycles and American cars have become near fixtures in the Swedish cultural canon. And perhaps also his portrait of the royal family, unveiled at Gripsholm Castle in 1985.
Now, thanks to Garpenhus Auktioner, we have the chance to get close to John-Erik Franzén through a themed auction featuring the artist’s own possessions. Among the items are examples of Scandinavian design, a good selection of art books, and a coveted Leica camera. The 40+ lots also include John-Erik Franzén’s own easel — not bad provenance for a piece like that, wouldn’t you agree?
