Berndt Friberg vase

This rare and large ceramic vase, designed by Berndt Friberg and produced in 1967 by Gustavsberg in Sweden, is a refined example of Scandinavian studio ceramics at the height of their artistic maturity. Friberg’s mastery of proportion, glaze, and form is fully realized in this piece, which exemplifies his signature approach to quiet elegance and technical perfection.

The vase features a tall, slender silhouette that culminates in a slightly flared neck, transitioning with seamless continuity into a cylindrical body and rounded base. The vertical composition is carefully balanced, offering both visual lightness and structural presence. This restrained and architectural form is a hallmark of Friberg’s design vocabulary, where clarity and calm are achieved through absolute control over volume and contour.

The surface is finished in Friberg’s characteristic hare’s fur glaze, a meticulously applied and kiln-fired finish that produces a fine, directional texture resembling the soft, striated pattern of animal fur. In this example, the glaze ranges in tone from deep, lustrous blue at the neck to darker, almost inky hues toward the base. The subtle gradient enhances the vase’s verticality while creating a dynamic interplay of light and depth across the surface. The glaze is exceptionally smooth to the touch, with a satin finish that gently reflects light without glare.

Measuring 7.5 cm in diameter and 30 cm in height (approximately 2.95 × 11.8 inches), the vase is tall and narrow, making it a commanding yet elegant presence within any setting. Its proportions are ideal for display as a standalone object or as part of a curated collection of Scandinavian ceramics.

The piece is in excellent vintage condition, with no visible cracks, chips, or restorations. The glaze surface remains intact and rich in tone, and the form retains its original sharpness and precision. The underside of the base bears Friberg’s hand-incised signature and the Gustavsberg studio mark, along with the date code for 1967, confirming its authenticity.

Berndt Friberg (1899–1981) was one of the most celebrated ceramicists of the 20th century in Sweden. Known for his extraordinary throwing skill and experimental glazes, Friberg worked at Gustavsberg’s studio under Wilhelm Kåge and later developed his own highly distinct style. Each of his works was individually wheel-thrown and glazed, resulting in unique variations even among similarly shaped forms. His pieces are internationally collected and are considered among the finest examples of modern Scandinavian ceramic artistry.

This 1967 vase represents a mature work in Friberg’s oeuvre, uniting form, color, and surface with extraordinary subtlety. It stands as both a decorative object and a testament to one of Scandinavia’s most accomplished ceramicists.