Oslo | St Hallvard

“Oslo has no coat of arms”

A defiant tribute to Saint Hallvard and Oslo's contested heraldic heritage.

Historical Context

Or so the slightly grumpy like to say. But Oslo does, in fact, have a city seal, dating back to the 14th century or thereabouts. On it stands none other than our patron saint, Hallvard, who valiantly—but unsuccessfully—tried to save a pregnant thrall woman from so-called wrongdoers. Hallvard himself met a grim fate: an arrow to the throat, followed by an attempt to sink him with a millstone around his neck. He floated, of course, which rather conveniently earned him sainthood.

The city seal has seen many variations over the centuries. At one point, Hallvard even took on the guise of a goddess—Fortuna—because Protestant Kristiania couldn’t very well have a Catholic saint. The motif in use today has existed since 1890.

Artistic Interpretation

My interpretation draws on one of the early versions: a somewhat feminine Hallvard. I like him that way. My Saint Hallvard is ready to grace the walls of Oslo patriots, bearing the inscription "Unanimiter et constanter Oslo" ("United and steadfast, Oslo").

About the print

• Motif: The image is composed entirely of thousands of tiny ink dots, created through the slow and meticulous technique of stippling.
• Printing technique: Once digitised, each work is produced as a giclée print – a fine art process renowned for its precision, rich detail and archival quality.
• Edition: Each print is signed by the artist and issued in a hand-numbered limited edition of 150. Each print also includes a signed certificate of authenticity.
• Paper: Printed on thick, subtly textured Hahnemühle paper made from 100% cotton, valued for its durability and timeless quality.
• Size: Each sheet measures approximately 329 mm × 241 mm (13" × 9.5"), with a natural deckle edge that may cause the width to vary slightly (1–6 mm). Suitable for a standard frame:  30x40 cm with an A4 passepartout. 
• Care Instructions: For longevity, display away from direct sunlight and high humidity.

Shipping

In Norway, shipping is always free. Your order is sent via tracked post and usually arrives within 3–5 business days, unless «Posten» has other ideas.

For international orders, shipping is a flat 200NOK (close to €20), wherever you are, and your package typically takes 7–14 business days, depending on how friendly customs is feeling.

Important information for International orders

Orders shipped outside Norway may be subject to import VAT, customs duties, and handling fees. I’d love to skip that bit for you, but your local authorities might have other plans.