February 2011, Issue 13
Dollhouse Tourism, Norway
Page 60
Rosemaling (Norwegian for rose painting) is the name of a form of decorative folk art that originated in the rural valleys of Norway. This style of decorative painting on wood uses stylized flower ornamentation, scrollwork and geometric elements in flowing patterns.
Rosemaling originated in the low-land areas of eastern Norway particularly in Telemark and Hallingdal, but also in Numedal and Setesdal and in other valleys in Vest-Agder, Hordaland, Sogn og Fjordane and Rogaland. It came into existence around 1750, when Baroque and Rococo, artistic styles of the upper class, were introduced into Norway's rural culture.
Rosemaling designs use C and S strokes and feature scroll and flowing lines, floral designs and subtle colors. Script lettering, scenes and figures may also be included. Artists who specialized in rosemaling came from poorer classes in the countryside. They would travel from county to county painting churches and/or the homes of the wealthy for a commission of either money or merely room and board. Thus rosemaling was carried over the mountains and toward Norway's western coast.
Custom Dolls, Houses & Miniatures / CDHM