Karl Persson vase

This sculptural vase by Karl Persson, produced by Höganäs Keramik in Sweden during the 1960s, stands 24.5 cm tall with a maximum diameter of 16 cm. Its silhouette begins with a straight, cylindrical neck that transitions smoothly into a rounded, bulbous lower body. The overall form balances proportion and volume, suggesting both classical symmetry and a modernist sensibility.

The surface is coated in a deep, matte green glaze, characteristic of Höganäs stoneware from this period. A fine network of craquelure covers the exterior, the delicate fractures accentuating the glaze’s subtle tonal variations and lending the piece an aged patina. The rich green shifts from darker forest hues in the recesses of the relief to softer, more muted tones on the raised surfaces, creating dynamic visual depth.

Encircling the lower half are stylized organic motifs rendered in low relief. Broad, petal-like forms sweep upward from the base, their curves defined by crisp edges and subtle shadowing. Near the shoulder, a series of small circular bosses punctuate the surface, introducing a rhythmic punctuation that complements the larger leaf shapes below. Together, these decorations evoke references to foliage and seed pods, abstracted through a modernist lens.

Karl Persson (active mid-20th century) contributed significantly to Höganäs Keramik’s exploration of texture and form. Under his guidance, the workshop developed a signature approach to relief glazing, marrying functional stoneware with decorative abstraction. Höganäs Keramik itself, established in the early 1900s in the Skåne region, earned its reputation for robust, carefully crafted pieces that blended traditional craftsmanship with progressive design.

On the underside, the impressed marks “KP” and “Höganäs” confirm both designer and origin. The vase is in very good vintage condition: aside from the intentional glaze craquelure, there are no chips, cracks, or signs of repair. Light wear on the base attests to its decades of display, while the relief details remain sharp, preserving the tactile qualities central to its aesthetic.

This vase exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian design’s marriage of natural inspiration, formal clarity, and material integrity. Its sculptural presence and nuanced surface treatment make it a versatile piece for settings that appreciate the interplay of geometry, texture, and the subtle poetry of glazed stoneware.