This outstanding impressionist snow scene of New York’s Grand Army Plaza was composed by the Danish-born artist Johann Henrik Carl Berthelsen. A master of the American Impressionist movement, Berthelsen’s wintertime scene perfectly captures the beauty and ambiance of snowfall in the city under a veil of blinding flurries. His uniquely American take on the French Impressionist style is made manifest in the American flags that line the boulevard, a common motif in his oeuvre. Surrounding a statue of General Sherman, the flags are an artistic ode to the rich history and patriotism of the city.

Born in Copenhagen, Berthelsen was six when he immigrated to the United States. Though he is known best for his painting, his initial passion was for music, a love that earned him a full scholarship to the Chicago Musical College at the age of 18. After graduating as a trained baritone, Berthelsen toured the United States and Canada with the Grand Opera Company, later returning to his alma mater to teach voice. It was not until the Great Depression when he lost many of his voice students that he decided to devote his entire attention to painting. In 1920, he had moved to New York City, and there Berthelsen found limitless inspiration. Central Park, the East River and various landmarks and city streets came to dominate his canvases. His snow-covered cityscapes earned Berthelsen critical acclaim, and are today his most sought compositions.