Anna Petrus bowl

This rare pewter bowl, designed by Anna Petrus and produced by Svenskt Tenn in 1927, is an outstanding example of early 20th-century Swedish decorative arts. It embodies Petrus’s distinctive design language, which combined classical influences with expressive sculptural elements, and reflects the refined craftsmanship for which Svenskt Tenn became renowned during the interwar period.

The bowl features a circular form with a slightly flared rim, offering a clean and harmonious profile. The body is smooth and gently curved, finished in pewter with a soft, silvery-grey patina that has developed beautifully over time. The natural surface wear, including minor marks and light oxidation, is consistent with the age of the piece and adds depth and authenticity to its appearance.

A defining feature of the design is its three sculpted feet, cast in the form of stylized lion paws. These detailed supports are not only functional but imbue the bowl with a sense of strength and symbolic gravitas. The use of the lion paw motif is a hallmark of Anna Petrus’s design vocabulary—drawing from Nordic classicism and ancient symbolism while introducing a playful yet monumental sculptural flair. The paws elevate the vessel slightly off the surface, enhancing its presence and giving it an almost ceremonial quality.

Inside the bowl, engraved detailing in the form of delicate floral and organic motifs adds an additional layer of craftsmanship. These subtle decorative elements soften the austere geometry of the bowl’s form, reflecting Petrus’s ability to balance strength with delicacy.

Anna Petrus (1886–1949) was one of the few prominent female designers in Sweden during the 1920s and 1930s. A sculptor by training, she brought a bold and tactile approach to applied arts, often working with metals such as pewter, brass, and cast iron. Her collaboration with Svenskt Tenn under the artistic direction of Estrid Ericson resulted in a series of highly distinctive objects that fused sculptural richness with functional design—many of which, like this bowl, remain highly sought-after collectors’ pieces.

This particular example is in very good vintage condition. The pewter shows a natural, even patina with light wear that is consistent with its age. The lion paw feet remain sharply detailed and structurally sound. The engraved interior decoration is well-preserved, contributing to the bowl’s overall aesthetic value.

The bowl measures 23.5 cm in diameter and 8 cm in height, which corresponds to approximately 9.3 inches in diameter and 3.1 inches in height. It stands as a fine example of Anna Petrus’s creative vision and Svenskt Tenn’s legacy of exceptional craftsmanship.