Anna Petrus urns

This rare pair of urns, model no. 1, designed by Anna Petrus and produced by Näfveqvarns Bruk in Sweden in 1927, exemplifies the Swedish Grace movement’s blend of classical inspiration and Art Deco aesthetics. Crafted from cast iron, the urns display a rich, weathered patina that accentuates the intricate bas-relief detailing. The cylindrical forms are decorated with stylized motifs featuring human figures, birds, and abstract elements, reflecting Petrus’s characteristic approach to combining symbolic imagery with refined decorative art.

Anna Petrus was a notable Swedish sculptor and designer, especially recognized for her mastery of metalwork and cast iron objects. Her designs frequently incorporated mythological and Nordic themes, drawing from both classical and regional artistic traditions. Näfveqvarns Bruk, the foundry responsible for producing these urns, was renowned for its high-quality cast iron work, contributing significantly to Swedish decorative arts in the early 20th century.

The urns are representative of the Swedish Grace style, which emerged in the 1920s as a distinct interpretation of Art Deco marked by balanced proportions, clean lines, and restrained ornamental detail. This movement combined elegance with functional craftsmanship, resulting in objects that were both decorative and practical.

Each urn measures 24 cm in diameter and 21 cm in height (9.4 x 8.3 inches). The durable cast iron construction makes them suitable for indoor or outdoor use, and their sculptural relief work allows them to serve as both artistic decorative pieces and functional vessels.