Arthur Andersson floor vase

This large ceramic floor vase was designed by Arthur Andersson and produced by Wallåkra Stenkärlsfabrik in Sweden during the 1950s. The vase adopts a classic amphora-inspired form, featuring a softly rounded body that tapers gracefully toward both the base and shoulder, culminating in a short cylindrical neck with a gently flared rim.

The glaze presents a sophisticated interplay of earthy hues, including moss green, olive, deep umber, and muted beige. The surface decoration is organized into alternating horizontal bands with matte and semi-gloss finishes, creating a rhythmic pattern around the vase. These registers are embellished with incised zig-zag and linear motifs executed through a sgraffito technique, revealing the lighter clay body beneath the glaze and adding tactile contrast and visual depth to the piece.

The base bears an incised “Wallåkra” signature, confirming its origin. The vase exhibits characteristic signs of traditional wood firing, such as natural ash deposits and subtle kiln marks, indicative of Wallåkra’s enduring salt-glazing and reduction firing methods dating back to the 19th century.

Arthur Andersson (1910–1989) was a key figure in Swedish stoneware, renowned for integrating artisanal, historic firing and glazing techniques with a modernist design language. His work at Wallåkra balanced tradition with mid-century Scandinavian aesthetics, producing pieces that are both technically impressive and visually compelling.

The vase is in very good vintage condition, with a firing-related hairline crack visible at the base that does not affect its structural integrity. There are no restorations, and the glaze remains well preserved.

The dimensions are 27 cm in diameter and 40 cm in height, approximately 10.6 inches by 15.7 inches.