Sylvia Stave vase

This rare pewter vase, designed by Sylvia Stave and produced in 1934 by C.G. Hallberg in Sweden, stands as a notable example of early Swedish modernist design. Sylvia Stave, active during the interwar period, was one of the few female designers working in the male-dominated field of metalware, and her work remains highly regarded for its architectural precision and refined minimalism.

The vase features a spherical body with a softly matte surface and a tactile finish consistent with the character of pewter. The exterior is ornamented with a series of concentric horizontal lines that wrap around the entire form, creating a rhythmic texture that subtly catches and diffuses light. These etched lines are finely spaced and evenly rendered, demonstrating a high level of craftsmanship and attention to surface articulation.

The form itself is sculpturally restrained yet visually compelling: the broad, rounded body rises into a short, narrow neck that flares slightly outward, terminating in a modest, circular lip. This balanced profile emphasizes purity of form and proportion, aligning closely with the functionalist ideals of the 1930s. The understated decoration and clean geometry reflect influences from Bauhaus and continental modernist movements, while remaining rooted in Nordic material sensibility.

Stamped on the underside are hallmarks identifying the manufacturer, C.G. Hallberg, one of Sweden’s foremost silversmith firms at the time. The marks also include references to Svenskt Tenn, the prestigious design house with which Stave collaborated. These stamps authenticate the piece and situate it within a significant lineage of Scandinavian applied arts.

Measuring 19 cm in height and 21 cm in diameter, the vase converts to approximately 7.5 inches high and 8.3 inches in diameter.