Gunnar Nylund bowl

This is a mid-century modern stoneware bowl designed by Gunnar Nylund and produced by Rörstrand in Sweden during the 1950s. The piece reflects Nylund’s signature approach to organic form and reactive glaze techniques, characteristic of Scandinavian ceramics in the postwar period.

The bowl is formed in an asymmetric, gently curved oval shape with an elevated rim that tapers toward the base. Its compact dimensions measure approximately 16 cm in length, 12.5 cm in width, and 8 cm in height, equivalent to 6.3 inches by 4.9 inches by 3.1 inches. The contour is fluid, with a sense of visual motion enhanced by the deep curvature and irregular rim line.

The surface treatment is a standout feature, showcasing a mottled glaze in shades of dark charcoal, cobalt blue, and subtle gradients of chestnut brown at the lip. The glaze exhibits a speckled, volcanic texture, with the interior transitioning from a densely saturated black-blue center outward to brighter flecks of blue toward the edges. This effect is achieved through layered glaze application and kiln-reactive firing, techniques for which Nylund was renowned.

The exterior of the bowl displays a more subdued brown-black hue with sporadic blue flecking. The glaze transitions naturally over the convex curves, emphasizing the hand-thrown character of the ceramic body. The rim is finely detailed and clearly delineated by a warmer reddish-brown edge, providing a framing element that defines the form.

The underside bears the incised signature “R Sweden” along with Nylund’s initials and the model number “ARO” confirming the bowl’s attribution to Gunnar Nylund and its origin at Rörstrand, one of Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious porcelain and stoneware manufacturers.

Nylund served as artistic director at Rörstrand from the 1930s through the 1950s and is credited with introducing more expressive glazing methods and biomorphic forms to the company’s output. His work helped bridge the decorative arts with modernist design and remains influential within the canon of Scandinavian studio ceramics.

The bowl is in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or repairs, and retains its original glaze.