Wilhelm Kåge vase

This rare ceramic vase from the Farsta series was designed by Wilhelm Kåge and produced by Gustavsberg in Sweden around 1960. Crafted in stoneware, the vase features a vertically ribbed surface texture with a flowing blue glaze that cascades from the rim toward the base. The glaze displays a rich variation of tones, ranging from deep navy and cobalt at the upper rim to lighter turquoise shades below, accented by mottled olive-green hues near the top. The glaze pools and drips near the unglazed foot, revealing the reddish-brown clay body beneath. The interior is fully glazed in a similarly rich and varied palette.

The form is asymmetrically oval with an irregular, softly contoured rim and a broad, slightly tapering body. Intentional marks and punctuated glaze inclusions adorn the surface, adding sculptural character and emphasizing the individuality of the piece. This tactile approach is typical of Kåge’s later studio work, focusing on natural glaze effects and textured surfaces.

Wilhelm Kåge, who served as artistic director at Gustavsberg from 1917 to 1949, continued producing limited edition studio pieces thereafter. The Farsta series, named after the locale of Gustavsberg’s studio workshop, is among his most experimental and collectible work. Each piece was hand-thrown and uniquely glazed, marrying modernist design with organic material expression.

The base bears multiple stamps including the “Farsta” mark, the Gustavsberg studio seal, and Kåge’s incised signature. The vase is in excellent condition, with minor wear appropriate to its age and production, including glaze variation and surface texture irregularities inherent to handmade ceramics.

The vase measures 19 centimeters (7.5 inches) in diameter and 18 centimeters (7.1 inches) in height, representing a refined example of mid-century Swedish studio ceramics.