Gunnar Nylund bowl

This ceramic bowl was designed by Gunnar Nylund and produced by Rörstrand in Sweden during the mid-20th century. The form is softly asymmetrical, rising in a gentle organic curve that gives the piece a sculptural presence. Its glaze is a deep, mottled blue with subtle transitions to greenish and darker tones, creating a textured surface effect that reflects Nylund’s interest in natural variations and experimental finishes. The interplay of glaze depth and color gives the object a sense of movement, while the smooth inner and outer surfaces emphasize the elegance of the form.

The bowl is in excellent condition, showing no visible damage or restorations. The underside is signed with Rörstrand’s hallmark along with Gunnar Nylund’s monogram, confirming its authenticity. The glaze on the base shows characteristic pooling and tonal shifts, a testament to the firing process and to Nylund’s mastery in controlling ceramic surfaces.

Gunnar Nylund (1904–1997) was a leading figure in Scandinavian ceramics, with a career spanning several decades across Denmark and Sweden. After his early years at Bing & Grøndahl and Saxbo, he became artistic director at Rörstrand in 1931, a position that established him as one of Sweden’s most important ceramic designers. Nylund was instrumental in shaping the company’s modernist profile, introducing stoneware with innovative glazes, sculptural vessels, and animal figures. His style was marked by organic forms and a refined modernism that bridged functionality and artistry.

Rörstrand, founded in 1726, is one of the oldest porcelain manufacturers in Europe and a central institution in Swedish design history. The company’s mid-century period, marked by collaborations with Nylund, Carl-Harry Stålhane, and others, is considered one of its most innovative eras. Pieces from this time represent the height of Scandinavian ceramic modernism, blending technical experimentation with a restrained design language.

This bowl exemplifies the refined aesthetics of mid-century Scandinavian design, merging organic form with experimental glaze work. Its compact yet expressive proportions make it a distinctive work within Nylund’s wide production.

Dimensions: 15.5 cm in length, 12 cm in width, and 8 cm in height (approximately 6.1 x 4.7 x 3.1 inches).