Carl Milles papers, 1942-1970

Collection Information

Size: 0.2 linear ft.

Summary: Twenty letters (1949-1955) include four from Albert Christ-Janer concerning financial matters and one from Milles' assistant Berthold Schiwetz. Photographs (1944-1954) show Milles at work (2 copyprints microfilmed on reel 1817, fr. 836-839), works of art by Milles and his wife Olga, and the Klockargardens Skola (1947). Other materials consist of clippings (1942-1970), five contracts (1948-1952), receipts (1955), and a program from a memorial service for Milles (1955).

Biographical/Historical Note

Carl Milles was born in Lagga, Sweden, the son of Major Emil ("Mille") Andersson. He derived his name from the inversion of his father's nickname "Milles (Mille's) Carl". He was apprenticed to a cabinetmaker and studied for 3 years at the Technical School in Stockholm, during which time he befriended sculptor John Borjeson. Between 1897 and 1900, Milles studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts. While in Paris, he met artist Olga Granner, whom he married in 1905. In 1902, Milles gained recognition in Sweden with his design for the Sten Sture monument. Milles also studied at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan and became a citizen of the United States in 1945.

Provenance

The donor, LeRoy Dahlberg, was Carl Milles' attorney.

Language Note

Three letters, clippings, and one contract are in Swedish.

Alternative Forms Available

Microfilm reel 812 available at Archives of American Art offices and through interlibrary loan.

Restrictions on Access

Use of original papers requires an appointment and is limited to the Archives' Washington, D.C., Research Center. Microfilmed materials must be consulted on microfilm. Contact Reference Services for more information.

How to Cite This Collection

Carl Milles papers, 1942-1970. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.