Harkening back to the 17th century, rosemaling is a decorative folk art often seen in homes and churches throughout Norway. Rosemaling was influenced by the French Rococo style with its exuberant decorations, abundance of curves, counter-curves, undulations and elements. Directly translated, rosemaling means “rose painting”; flowers are a dominant theme in the art form.
There are four types of rosemaling – Gudbrandsdal, Hallingdal, Telemark and Os – all geographic areas in Norway. The styles are called after the regions they came from.
Telemark is perhaps the most popular rosemaling style. It’s defined by its signature C-scroll with other design elements emanating from and around it. Sometimes there are several C-shapes and even S-shapes embedded in the artwork which will also contain fanciful flowers and elaborate line work and detailing, all making up an exuberant outwards flow.
<You can read more about the history of rosemaling here>.
