Was \”blowing out a candle\” how Jenny Nyström’s life ended? We stand here at the final resting place of Jenny Nyström. It is a peaceful spot in Norra Begravningsplatsen cemetery. This is in Solna a part of Stockholm. Jenny Nyström’s grave is a place to reflect on her life.
Jenny Nyström was born on June 13 1854. She died on January 17 1946 at the age of 91. Find a Grave says she is buried here in Section Kv 11B grave 33 -7882. Her Find a Grave memorial ID is 8896.
Nyström was a famous Swedish artist. She was also an illustrator. Her artwork gained great exposure. This was due to the appealing nature of her drawings.
Her legacy was established. This was by the popularity of her depictions of tomte. Tomte is a mythological creature. It is often associated with Christmas. Nyström’s artwork was modern and humorous. It was not unusual to see a tomte captaining an airplane. One might also see it driving a car or even a train. She wasn’t afraid to use exotic animals. Elephants and giraffes were tomte assistants. They delivered Christmas presents across Sweden. The images also contained traditional folk Christmas imagery. There were Christmas goats Christmas trees and sleighs.
Jenny Nyström was the first woman in Sweden. She was awarded a royal medal for her historically themed painting. She also illustrated Viktor Rydberg’s poem \”Tomten\”. This appeared in Ny Illustrerad Tidning in 1881.
She carried on with her painting until the end. Jenny Nyström died in her home in Stockholm. She was buried here at Norra cemetery. Her husband Daniel Stoopendaal and her father Daniel Nyström are also buried here.
Seventy-five years after her death her illustrated cards are still being printed. Her academic artwork and her watercolors fetch high prices. This happens at the larger auction houses. Jenny Nyström’s work continues to bring joy to people. She captured the spirit of Christmas in her art. She created images that are timeless. These images continue to be loved today.
As you leave Jenny Nyström’s grave take a moment to remember her art. Think about the joy she brought to so many. Consider how her images of tomte helped shape Swedish Christmas traditions.