Sven-Erik Skawonius vase

This rare ceramic vase, model Bari, was designed by Swedish artist and designer Sven-Erik Skawonius and produced in the 1950s by Karlskrona Porslinsfabrik, one of Sweden’s notable mid-century ceramic manufacturers. The piece reflects a balance between decorative refinement and sculptural form, characteristic of Skawonius’s design sensibility.

The vase is finished in a delicate pastel light green glaze that enhances its soft, flowing contours. The surface exhibits a glossy sheen, which captures and diffuses light, lending the piece a serene and elegant presence. This muted color choice aligns with the Scandinavian palette of the era, favoring subdued tones that emphasize form and material.

The structure of the vase is distinguished by a hexagonal opening that tapers fluidly into a rounded, bulbous body. The transition between angular and curved geometry is seamlessly resolved, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in its shaping. The body is decorated with low-relief wave-like motifs that wrap around the surface in a rhythmic sequence. These sculptural elements introduce texture and movement to the vase, enriching its visual interest and reinforcing its organic character.

Measuring 13.5 cm in diameter and 19 cm in height (approximately 5.3 × 7.5 inches), the vase has a compact but prominent profile. Its proportions make it ideal for standalone display or as part of a curated ceramic collection. The base is clearly stamped, confirming its origin at Karlskrona Porslinsfabrik and further authenticating its attribution to Skawonius.

Sven-Erik Skawonius (1908–1981) was a Swedish painter, graphic artist, and designer who contributed to several fields, including ceramics, textiles, and interiors. His work often merged artistic expressiveness with functional design, drawing on natural forms and rhythmic patterning. While less prolific in ceramics than some of his contemporaries, his pieces—particularly those for Karlskrona—demonstrate a refined aesthetic that bridges fine art and industrial design.

Karlskrona Porslinsfabrik, active from the early 20th century until the 1960s, was known for producing both everyday tableware and decorative ceramics. Collaborations with designers like Skawonius allowed the factory to create distinctive pieces that now hold a place in Scandinavian ceramic history.

The vase remains in excellent vintage condition, with no visible chips, cracks, or restoration. The glaze is intact and retains its original luster. This piece is a fine example of 1950s Swedish design, notable for its harmonious combination of color, form, and subtle ornamentation.