“Ulf and Pontus” is a watercolor artwork on paper created in 1894 by Swedish artist Carl Larsson. This piece belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and is a portrait genre artwork.
The artwork depicts two young boys in period attire, engaging in what appears to be imaginative play. The larger boy is seen wearing a chivalric hat with a feather, wielding a toy sword, and donned in a dark tunic. His serious expression contrasts with the smaller boy standing behind him, who sports a playful smile under his red hat. Both children’s attire and props exude a sense of historical playfulness. The background features a simple interior setting with a decorated chair and a mantelpiece adorned with small sculptures and a framed drawing, further contributing to the narrative of a domestic scene infused with childlike imagination. The delicate use of watercolor highlights both the vibrancy and softness characteristic of Larsson’s work, blending detailed realism with a soothing palette.
