Bror Edvin Bengtsson was one of the best Swedish marine-painter of the 19th century. Besides painting he also build many detailed model ships. Bengtsson was the son of C. J Bengtsson who owned a shipping company so the fascination of the sea started at an early age. As a young man Bengtsson traveled with his fathers ships and made many paintings and drawings. Bengtsson joined the navy and worked later as customs officer at the harbor of Halmstad, Sweden. It was during his time as a Customs officer that Bengtsson became well known for his marine oils. Many foreign captains requested a portrait of their ships while whey stayed at the harbor of Halmstad. Bengtsson was so busy keeping up with the demands that he often made the sketches on the backside of his Customs documents. Bengtsson was especially known for his fantastic details and never wanted to sell a oil if he was not 100 % satisfied with it himself. The majority of Bengtssons oils and model ships are permantly exhibited at the marine museum of Halmstad and at the Halmstad Grand library.
Øbro Art Gallery 