Wilhelm Kåge vase

This rare stoneware vase, model Surrea, was designed by Wilhelm Kåge and produced by Gustavsberg in Sweden. A member of the distinctive Surrea series, the vase exemplifies Kåge’s departure from conventional vessel forms in favor of expressive, sculptural compositions. Executed in high-fired stoneware and finished with a Carrara glaze, the surface presents a luminous, marble-like quality—subtly mottled and reflective, enhancing the dynamic interplay of light across its undulating form.

The vase features a dual asymmetrical structure, composed of interlocking convex volumes that appear to twist gently around a central axis. This formal arrangement gives the object a sense of movement and visual tension, with one volume rising slightly higher than the other. The absence of overt decoration allows the architectural shape and smooth glaze to define the aesthetic character, positioning the piece at the intersection of functional object and sculptural form.

Wilhelm Kåge (1889–1960) was a pivotal figure in 20th-century Swedish design. As artistic director of Gustavsberg from 1917 to 1949, he was instrumental in bridging the gap between artisanal production and industrial design. While Kåge is widely known for his practical domestic wares, such as the Argenta series, he also pursued more experimental projects in stoneware, particularly during the later part of his career. The Surrea series, likely conceived in the late 1940s or early 1950s, reflects his engagement with modernist and surrealist tendencies, prioritizing abstraction, volume, and psychological resonance.

This example is in excellent vintage condition, with only minor wear consistent with age. The glaze is well preserved, and the base is marked to indicate Gustavsberg origin and model attribution. As a piece from the Surrea series, it stands as a rare and expressive work within Kåge’s broader oeuvre, illustrating the sculptural potential of Swedish modern ceramics.