Jalmari Ruokokoski (1886-1936)
Finland
1915
Watercolor on paper, in a modern gilt frame, Signed and dated
13 1/2” x 10”
Provenance: Stenmans Konstsalong, Helsinki, Finland

Jalmari Ruokokoski studied at the Central School of Art and Design and the Art Society Drawing School, where he met friend and fellow artist Tyko Sallinen, leader of the November Group, a circle of Finnish Expressionist artists founded at the time of Finland’s independence from Russia. The artists were noted for causing uproar in the Finnish art scene, which was generally marked by its strong nationalistic views. Ruokokoski participated in numerous exhibitions put on by the group in the early 1900s. He is most known for his portraits, including several self-portraits, but he also produced a number of fascinating landscapes and still-lifes.

In the present work, Adam and Eve are depicted just following their expulsion from Paradise. The palette of blues and greens imbue the scene with a cool otherworldly quality, as the figures are struck with an unforgiving light as they emerge from deep forest.

Ruokokoski’s work can be found in a number of Nordic museum collections, including the Finnish National Museum.