Gunnar Nylund bowl

This is a ceramic bowl, model ARO, designed by Gunnar Nylund and produced by Rörstrand in Sweden during the 1960s. The bowl is a compact sculptural form with a gently organic, elliptical shape. Its silhouette undulates slightly at the rim, curving inward with soft asymmetry that enhances its tactile and visual appeal. The outer surface transitions seamlessly into the inner cavity, forming a continuous and harmonious volume characteristic of Nylund’s refined approach to ceramic form.

The glaze features a rich, dark brown ground with a fine speckled overlay in shades of blue and lighter ochre tones, particularly visible around the rim and outer edges. This variegated glaze surface provides depth and a subtle iridescence depending on lighting conditions. The base retains a matte finish, showing the signature and Rörstrand markings, including the incised “Sweden” the Rörstrand hallmark with three crowns, and the model designation “ARO”

Gunnar Nylund was a prominent figure in 20th-century Scandinavian ceramics, known for his work as artistic director at Rörstrand from the 1930s through the 1950s. His designs are noted for their organic simplicity, modernist influences, and experimental glazing techniques. The ARO model reflects his preference for understated elegance and biomorphic forms, with influences drawn from both functionalist ideals and the aesthetics of the natural world.

Rörstrand, one of Sweden’s most historic porcelain manufacturers, played a central role in defining Swedish ceramic production through the 20th century. Their collaborations with designers such as Nylund advanced stoneware and earthenware production techniques, helping elevate studio ceramics into industrial design contexts without compromising artistic integrity.

This bowl is in excellent vintage condition, showing only small signs of use and age consistent with careful handling. It exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian design principles through its minimalist shape, artisanal surface, and integration of function and aesthetics.

The dimensions are 10.5 cm in width, 7.5 cm in depth, and 5 cm in height, which corresponds approximately to 4.13 inches wide, 2.95 inches deep, and 1.97 inches high.