Gunnar Nylund bowl

This small ceramic bowl was designed by Gunnar Nylund and produced by Rörstrand in Sweden during the mid-20th century. The form is organic and asymmetrical, with softly rising edges that create a dynamic, almost sculptural profile. Its surface is covered in a light cream glaze with subtle tonal variations that reveal speckled textural effects, transitioning towards pale green accents along the lower section. The glaze treatment demonstrates Nylund’s mastery of experimental surface finishes, which became one of his signatures at Rörstrand.

The bowl is in excellent condition, with only minimal wear consistent with age and careful use. The underside bears the Rörstrand studio mark, along with Nylund’s inscribed signature, affirming its authenticity and studio production. The base also shows traces of the glaze pooling effect, which enhances its depth and character.

Gunnar Nylund (1904–1997) was one of Scandinavia’s most influential ceramicists and designers of the 20th century. After working at Bing & Grøndahl and Saxbo in Denmark, he joined Rörstrand in the early 1930s, where he later became artistic director. Over several decades, he introduced modernist aesthetics to Swedish stoneware, experimenting with matte feldspar glazes, chamotte textures, and sculptural forms. His work combined functional elegance with organic inspiration, contributing significantly to mid-century Scandinavian design.

Rörstrand, founded in 1726, is one of Europe’s oldest porcelain manufacturers and became a central force in Swedish design. During the mid-20th century, the company was especially known for its collaborations with leading designers such as Nylund, Carl-Harry Stålhane, and Hertha Bengtson. Their stoneware and decorative ceramics from this period are today regarded as important expressions of Scandinavian modernism.

The bowl represents mid-century Scandinavian ceramic artistry, merging functional object-making with sculptural abstraction. Its modest size and refined glaze treatment reflect Nylund’s approach of balancing modern form with material experimentation.

Dimensions: 10.5 cm in length, 7.5 cm in width, and 5 cm in height (approximately 4.1 x 3 x 2 inches).