1894 Ulf and Pontus watercolor Carl Larsson (1853-1919)

The watercolor presents two young boys within a domestic interior. They stand before a mantelpiece, their postures suggesting a staged performance or playful imitation of military roles. The boy on the left carries a sword and what appears to be a ceremonial flag, while the other holds a small, ornate weapon resembling a saber. Both are dressed in elaborate costumes – the first in a dark uniform with a peaked cap, the second in a red feathered hat and matching attire.
The setting itself is rendered with a degree of formality. The mantelpiece displays framed artwork and decorative objects, indicating a comfortable middle-class household. A richly upholstered chair sits to the right, partially obscuring the view beyond. The light source appears to be from the left, illuminating the boys’ faces and highlighting the textures of their costumes and the surrounding environment.
The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the height of the figures and the grandeur implied by their attire. Their gazes are directed outward, suggesting a presentation to an unseen audience. A sense of theatricality pervades the scene; its not clear if this is a spontaneous moment or a carefully arranged tableau. The inscription above the boys – visible as Ulf and Pontus – provides names, grounding the image in specific identities while simultaneously reinforcing the notion of a personalized portrait or commemorative work.
Subtly, the painting hints at themes of childhood play, social status, and perhaps even nascent notions of national identity or military aspiration. The elaborate costumes suggest an interest in historical reenactment or a desire to emulate authority figures. The formality of the setting contrasts with the playful nature of their actions, creating a tension that adds depth to the work. It is likely intended as a sentimental record of childhood, imbued with a sense of nostalgia and familial pride.