Berndt Friberg bowl

This rare ceramic bowl, designed by Berndt Friberg and produced by Gustavsberg in Sweden in 1964, is a fine example of mid-century Scandinavian ceramics distinguished by its masterful glazing and refined form. The bowl showcases Friberg’s signature hare’s fur glaze in a rich cobalt blue, featuring subtle tonal variations that enhance the piece’s delicate texture and the interplay of light and shadow across its surface.

The form is elegantly minimalistic, with a shallow, symmetrical profile and gently sloping sides that emphasize its precise craftsmanship. It rests on a small, slightly recessed foot, which is left unglazed, revealing the fine-grained reddish stoneware typical of Friberg’s work. The interior echoes the exterior’s gradient, transitioning smoothly from a deep blue at the rim to a more concentrated hue at the base.

Berndt Friberg was renowned for his exceptional skill in wheel-throwing and glazing, initially trained as a thrower at Gustavsberg where he collaborated with Wilhelm Kåge before developing his own distinctive style. His work, influenced by Asian ceramics, is celebrated for its technical mastery, harmonious proportions, and exquisite glazes.

Gustavsberg, a leading Swedish ceramics manufacturer, played a crucial role in promoting Scandinavian modern design through collaborations with leading designers. This bowl exemplifies the company’s commitment to combining functionality with artisanal craftsmanship.

Measuring 10 cm in diameter and 4 cm in height (3.9 x 1.6 inches), the bowl is in excellent condition, free from visible imperfections or restorations, preserving the integrity of Friberg’s original design and glazing technique.