Gunnar Nylund vase

This rare and tall ceramic vase, designed by Gunnar Nylund and produced by Rörstrand in Sweden, exemplifies the refined organic modernism that defined Nylund’s celebrated body of work. With its elegant vertical proportions and richly textured glaze, the piece reflects the designer’s enduring interest in natural forms, restrained decoration, and the expressive potential of ceramic surfaces.

The vase is executed in a striking turquoise glaze, subtly mottled with speckled earthy undertones that add depth and visual movement across the surface. The glaze has a slightly matte finish—soft to the eye and touch—typical of Nylund’s preference for subdued luster over high gloss. This treatment enhances the organic quality of the piece and allows the nuanced texture to be fully appreciated. The coloration transitions gently in places, with light variations that evoke mineral or aquatic associations, reinforcing the vase’s quiet naturalism.

Formally, the vase is defined by its elongated silhouette, measuring 45 cm in height and 10 cm in diameter (17.7 x 3.9 inches). A narrow, cylindrical neck gracefully expands into a flared rim, providing an elegant counterpoint to the rounded, full-bodied lower section. The proportions are finely judged—balanced, slender, and composed with architectural clarity. The clean profile, free from extraneous ornament, places the emphasis on form, glaze, and material.

Condition is excellent. The vase is free from chips, cracks, or restoration. The glaze remains evenly preserved, with no signs of surface damage or discoloration, maintaining its original tactile and visual character.

Gunnar Nylund (1904–1997) was one of Sweden’s most influential ceramic artists and served as artistic director at Rörstrand from the 1930s through the 1950s. His work is noted for its quiet innovation, blending modernist principles with a deep sensitivity to form and texture. This tall vase is a quintessential example of his mature style—graceful, restrained, and timeless—and represents an important piece of Scandinavian ceramic heritage. It stands as both a sculptural object and a functional vessel, equally suited for display on its own or as part of a broader collection of 20th-century design.