Gunnar Nylund bowl

This ceramic bowl is a rare model AXK designed by Gunnar Nylund for Rörstrand in Sweden during the 1950s. The piece is distinguished by its sculptural form with softly rising, asymmetrical sides that give the vessel an organic presence. The glaze is a vivid speckled blue with darker tonal variations, creating a dynamic surface texture that accentuates the depth and curvature of the bowl. The rim is subtly defined in a warm brown tone, providing contrast to the cooler body of the glaze.

The bowl is executed in stoneware, a medium for which Nylund became widely recognized during his long tenure as artistic director at Rörstrand. His designs often combined modernist clarity of form with complex glazes that gave each piece individuality. This model exemplifies his ability to integrate functional vessel shapes with sculptural artistry.

Rörstrand, founded in 1726, is among Sweden’s oldest and most important ceramic manufacturers, and under Gunnar Nylund’s direction in the mid-20th century, the company became a leading force in Scandinavian modern design. Nylund’s work from this period is regarded as highly influential, combining a refined simplicity of line with bold surface treatments.

The bowl is in excellent condition, preserving the integrity of both form and glaze. It measures 27 cm in length, 23 cm in width, and 15.5 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 10.6 x 9 x 6.1 inches. This piece represents both a functional object and a sculptural expression, characteristic of Scandinavian ceramic artistry in the postwar era.