Johann Esaias Nilson

Johann Esaias Nilson was an artist active between 1721 and 1755, known primarily for his contributions to the graphic arts, encompassing prints and drawings. His legacy is preserved through works held in major international institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Rijksmuseum, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Museum collections documentation indicates that Nilson is represented by 9 prints, 5 drawings, and 1 other work. These compositions typically focus on highly decorative or ornamental designs, often utilizing the cartouche format popular in the mid-18th century.

Notable documented prints include sets of Cartouches Modernes, such as Cartouche Moderne with Emblems of Death and Cartouche Moderne with a Young Couple Being Served Wine. Further examples of his detailed ornamental work are Cartouches Modernes avec des Enfans qui representant les Modes d'Augsbourg and Cartouches Modernes orné avec des [diferentes Figures] (Plate VI-1 from the set). Figurative and allegorical subjects are also evident in pieces like Rococo Fountain with Lovers and the Four Elements.

As many of these works date to the first half of the 18th century, they are frequently represented today as high-quality prints within the public domain. The availability of original drawings and Johann Esaias Nilson prints enables the study and reproduction of his specialized museum-quality decorative work.