Carl Johan Cronstedt, architect and organizer - a man of his time

Printing of a book on the activities and collections of the superintendent Carl Johan Cronstedt (1709-1777). Count Carl Johan Cronstedt is mentioned in numerous studies on 18th century Sweden: as the rationalizer of the tiled stove, as a superintendent or in connection with the world-famous collection bearing his name at the National Museum. Unlike the other superintendents, Cronstedt showed a great interest in economics and his very pragmatic approach is one reason why he has not gone down in history as a 'great' architect. However, his activities are often considered boring or uninteresting, which has led to the lack of a biographical account of him so far. However, a compilation of existing research and a closer examination of an incredibly rich archive material suggests that his role in Swedish architectural history should be re-evaluated. There is every indication that through his pragmatic approach he very actively contributed to the modernization of our Swedish architecture, urban planning and living environment. The aim of this book is therefore to provide a better insight into Cronstedt's theoretical and practical contribution to Swedish architectural history. Four chapters present Cronstedt's education, a selection of his activities as a civil servant and architect, and the history and content of the library.