Gertrud Lönegren vase

This rare ceramic vase, designed by Gertrud Lönegren and produced by Rörstrand in Sweden, represents a compelling fusion of sculptural form and refined surface treatment characteristic of mid-century Scandinavian ceramic art. The piece is crafted in stoneware and finished with a warm, earthy brown glaze that subtly shifts in tone across its vertically ridged surface. These ridges, evenly spaced and finely articulated, create a rhythmic texture that adds both visual interest and tactile depth, emphasizing the verticality and cylindrical symmetry of the form.

The vase features a full-bodied, rounded profile with a gently tapered upper section terminating in a narrow, slightly raised opening. This classic silhouette, functional in nature, allows the vase to serve equally well as a vessel for floral arrangements or as a standalone sculptural object. The glaze, likely applied in layers, enhances the dimensionality of the surface by pooling in recesses and highlighting the high points of the ridged pattern. The tonal variations range from deep chestnut to lighter sienna hues, producing a natural warmth that complements the geometric structure.

Gertrud Lönegren, active during the mid-20th century, was a significant contributor to Swedish ceramics and a longtime collaborator with Rörstrand. Her designs are recognized for their balance between precision and spontaneity, often incorporating elements drawn from nature and architecture. Lönegren’s work is marked by an intuitive command of form and a distinctive glazing technique that emphasizes both surface structure and material integrity.

Produced by Rörstrand—one of Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious ceramics manufacturers—the vase embodies the studio’s high production standards and artistic ambition during a period of intense innovation in Scandinavian decorative arts. This example remains in excellent vintage condition, with no visible chips, cracks, or repairs. The glaze is intact and retains its original luster, while the crispness of the ridged detailing suggests careful preservation.

As a rare work by Lönegren, this vase stands as a testament to the enduring quality and aesthetic clarity of Swedish mid-century ceramics, merging traditional techniques with modernist design sensibilities.