Vase

This rare ceramic vase from the 1950s exemplifies the sculptural and architectural experimentation characteristic of Scandinavian mid-century ceramics. The design features a central horizontal body flanked by five vertically extruded tubular necks of varying heights, each with an oval opening, all supported by four cylindrical legs that visually extend from the upper structure, emphasizing modularity and balance.

The dual-toned glaze contrasts a mottled, stone-like brown on the main body and lower sections with a deep matte black on the necks and reverse side. The black glaze, likely hand-applied, reveals brushstroke transitions that create a lively tension between texture and tone, underscoring the handcrafted nature of the piece.

Executed using slab and coil construction, the vase’s subtle asymmetries and organic irregularities align with the postwar Northern European ceramic tradition that blurred the line between functional object and art sculpture. Though unsigned, its formal language and glazing techniques evoke parallels with prominent Scandinavian ceramicists like Hertha Hillfon, Bengt Berglund, and Kyllikki Salmenhaara.

The vase is in very good vintage condition, retaining natural firing marks and glaze imperfections that affirm its artisanal origin without detracting from its visual impact.

Dimensions: 27 cm wide, 11 cm deep, 34 cm high (approximately 10.6 x 4.3 x 13.4 inches).