The band was formed in Sweden in 1991 as Chalice. The founding members were artist (guitar) and Tormentor (drums, vocals). However, Tormentor left the band in 1993 and artist changed the band's name to Svartsyn. In 1994 artist joined the band on second guitar. In 1995 the band recorded nine songs, five of which were released as the demo tape 3083057, while the other four remained unreleased. In 1996, artist of Dark Funeral joined on drums. That same year they signed to Folter Records and released their debut full-length 428824 (which the band later claimed to be the biggest mistake in their history).
In 1997, Svartsyn went on a tour with Behemoth and Desaster; after the tour artist was replaced by artist and they recorded the 2671315 7" EP. Between 1997 and 1998 the band recorded their second album, 337718; however, it remained unreleased at the time. Their third album, 357215, was recorded between 1999 and 2000 and released in 2000 by their new label, Sound Riot Records. After its release, Kolgrim was replaced by artist. 337718 finally saw the light of day later in 2000 when End All Life Productions issued a double LP collection of both 337718 and 357215.
Since the dawn of the new millenium, Svartsyn has released six more full-length albums, a mini-album and an EP, with only artist remainaing as a full-time band member.