Stig Lindberg vase

This tall, slender ceramic vase was designed by Stig Lindberg and produced by Gustavsberg in Sweden in 1962. Its vertical form and tapering neck culminating in a wide, flared lip contribute to its elegant, vessel-like silhouette, emblematic of Lindberg’s sculptural sensitivity and emphasis on proportion and surface modulation.

The surface is richly glazed in warm brown tones, varying from deep sienna to lighter amber hues. The glaze application enhances the textured relief that covers the entire body of the vase. This relief consists of a tight grid of small, indented rectangular and square motifs, each containing a raised oval or concentric detail, forming an intricate tactile matrix. The narrow neck and lip transition into a smoother surface, providing a contrast to the more densely patterned body.

The condition is good, showing minor signs of age and wear consistent with careful vintage use. The glaze remains well-preserved, exhibiting the slight patina expected of an original mid-century ceramic. The base of the vase is marked with the Gustavsberg stamp and bears Lindberg’s incised monogram, confirming the work’s origin and authenticity.

Stig Lindberg (1916–1982) was a central figure in Swedish postwar design, known for his playful forms, detailed textures, and experimental glazes. His work at Gustavsberg bridged both the artistic and industrial sides of ceramic production. Studio pieces like this one reflect his refined command of sculptural form and his interest in surfaces that engage both the hand and the eye.

Gustavsberg, active since the 19th century, rose to prominence in the 20th century under creative directors like Wilhelm Kåge and later Lindberg himself. The factory’s studio department became a leading center of Scandinavian ceramic art, producing unique objects that pushed the boundaries between design and craft.

The vase measures 23.5 cm in height and 7 cm in diameter (approximately 9.3 inches high and 2.8 inches in diameter). This piece stands as a representative example of Lindberg’s studio-era work, emphasizing form, surface complexity, and modernist clarity within the context of Scandinavian mid-century design.