"May people be merciful and forget me."

Helene Schjerfbeck began painting in the 19th-century naturalistic and traditional style but gradually developed an increasingly reduced and minimalist modernist approach. She is best known for her expressive self-portraits—many created later in life while living in Saltsjöbaden (Stockholm), where she is also buried. As a child, Schjerfbeck suffered a hip injury that forced long periods of inactivity—time she filled with painting. After attending several renowned art schools and gaining recognition through exhibitions, she withdrew to care for her ailing mother. Yet she never abandoned her art.