Lillemor Mannerheim vases

This is a set of four stoneware vases from the “Mangania” series, designed by Lillemor Mannerheim and produced by Upsala Ekeby in Sweden during the 1950s. Each vase in the set exhibits a sculptural, freeform silhouette rendered in a deep matte black glaze. The series is characterized by its organically abstract forms, often anthropomorphic in nature, with asymmetrical contours and curvilinear handles integrated into the bodies of the vessels.

The vases feature a range of distinctive shapes. Two of the larger pieces rise vertically with elongated necks and dual openings at the top, reminiscent of bifurcated branches or stylized human figures. These are accompanied by two smaller, equally dynamic vases—one with a sharply leaning body and large, sculpted side opening, and the other with two tightly paired spouts, curving subtly outward. The glaze across all four pieces is a smooth, deep charcoal black with subtle tonal variations, particularly along the contours, which emphasize the modeling of the clay and the refinement of form.

Lillemor Mannerheim was one of the most influential ceramic artists associated with Upsala Ekeby during the postwar period. Known for her refined use of matte glazes and abstracted organic forms, her designs are often rooted in the interplay between sculpture and functional vessel. The Mangania series, produced in the 1950s, exemplifies this approach, where the vase ceases to be a neutral container and instead becomes an expressive, almost figurative, object.

Upsala Ekeby, founded in the late 19th century, became one of Sweden’s leading ceramic producers in the 20th century. The company was especially influential during the mid-century modern period, supporting artists such as Mannerheim, Mari Simmulson, and Ingrid Atterberg. Their production combined high design standards with accessible ceramic techniques and was instrumental in shaping the identity of Scandinavian modern ceramics.

The set is in good vintage condition, showing minor signs of age and usage consistent with gentle handling. The surfaces retain their original matte finish and sculptural clarity.

The largest vase in the set measures approximately 12.5 cm in width, 8 cm in depth, and 32 cm in height, corresponding to roughly 4.92 inches wide, 3.15 inches deep, and 12.6 inches high. The other vases scale down proportionally and share similar stylistic and material characteristics.