Stig Lindberg vase

This sculptural ceramic vase, model Veckla, was designed by Stig Lindberg and produced by Gustavsberg in Sweden during the mid-20th century. It stands as a quintessential example of Scandinavian mid-century design, embodying the fusion of organic form and modernist abstraction that characterized Lindberg’s ceramic works.

The vase is crafted from matte white stoneware and shaped into a folded, pod-like vessel that gently twists around its own axis. The name “Veckla,” meaning “fold” in Swedish, reflects the design’s inspiration from natural forms such as leaves or petals. The exterior surface of the vase is asymmetrically curved, with two cresting edges meeting at a central point, resulting in a form that is both open and closed, simultaneously static and dynamic. This design emphasizes the fluidity and softness of the natural world, combined with the minimalist abstraction typical of mid-century modernism.

The vase is further enhanced by two large, sweeping brushstroke motifs in brown-gold and black enamel. These curved, abstract lines highlight the three-dimensionality of the form and are applied with precision to contribute to the rhythmic balance of the object. The contrast between the matte white stoneware and the glossy, fluid brushstrokes adds visual tension, showcasing Lindberg’s mastery in surface decoration.

Stig Lindberg, one of Sweden’s most influential designers, was known for his versatility in ceramics, textiles, and industrial design. His tenure at Gustavsberg, where he served as artistic director, was marked by a series of innovations in both form and decoration. The Veckla series is among Lindberg’s most celebrated ceramic works, prized for its tactile softness, sculptural qualities, and refined balance between art and functionality.

Gustavsberg, established in the early 1800s, became one of Sweden’s leading ceramic manufacturers, particularly during the postwar period when it collaborated with designers like Wilhelm Kåge, Berndt Friberg, and Lindberg. The Veckla line reflects this period of creative exploration, combining modernist ideals with traditional ceramic craftsmanship.

The vase measures 15.5 cm in width, 6.5 cm in depth, and 6 cm in height (approximately 6.1 x 2.6 x 2.4 inches).

The condition of the vase is excellent, with the matte glaze remaining intact and no visible chips, cracks, or signs of restoration. It is marked on the underside with the impressed Gustavsberg studio stamp, confirming its authenticity. This vase represents a refined and collectible example of Swedish modern design and Stig Lindberg’s artistic legacy.