A glassy glaze stoneware vase by Berndt Friberg
This Berndt Friberg vase from Gustavsberg’s studio, Sweden in 1964 showcases a deep, lustrous glaze, which transitions subtly in color from rich, earthy tones to a muted, smoky grayish green near the top. Friberg’s choice of a hare’s fur glaze—a technique he perfected—creates a textured, almost velvety appearance that invites closer inspection. The glaze’s finely layered colors emphasize the vase’s sleek silhouette, with the deep brown base shifting gracefully into softer hues. This controlled yet organic color gradient highlights Friberg’s skill in combining traditional Japanese-inspired techniques with Scandinavian minimalism, resulting in a piece that feels both serene and striking.
55.000 SEK
Berndt Friberg
Berndt Friberg (1899–1981) was a Swedish master ceramicist and one of the most prominent figures in 20th-century Swedish ceramics. He is particularly known for his work with the Gustavsberg porcelain factory, where he spent much of his career. Friberg was celebrated for his delicate, refined, and understated designs, blending traditional techniques with modern forms.
His pieces often exhibited soft glazes and a focus on craftsmanship, with a particular emphasis on subtlety, simplicity, and elegance. Friberg was adept at throwing and glazing porcelain, and he often created unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that emphasized form over decoration. His style was influenced by Scandinavian functionalism, which stressed the balance between aesthetics and usability, but he also injected a personal, artistic touch into every piece.
Friberg's work contributed to the high standing of Swedish ceramics internationally, and he gained recognition not only within Sweden but also beyond. He received several awards for his work, and his pieces are highly collectible today. His legacy continues to influence ceramic artists around the world.
