Hej everyone,
Scandinavian design often stands for minimalist elegance and clean lines—but there's also a playful, colorful side. A perfect example of this is Figgjo Flint, a Norwegian ceramics brand that delights collectors worldwide with its cheerful patterns and charming designs.
Whether it's tableware with floral motifs, retro colors, or hand-drawn illustrations, Figgjo Flint has created a unique legacy since the 1940s. In this article, we delve into the history, design, and distinctive features of this special brand.
The story of Figgjo Flint
Figgjo Flint's roots date back to 1941, when the ceramics factory Figgjo AS was founded in the small town of Figgjo, Norway. At the same time, a second factory called Flint existed in Sandnes. Both companies were known for their high-quality ceramic products and supplied not only the Scandinavian market but also international customers.
In 1968, the two companies merged to form Figgjo Flint AS, creating one of the most recognized Scandinavian ceramic brands. While production was modernized over the years, the love of Scandinavian design and craftsmanship remained intact.
Today, Figgjo still exists – albeit under the name Figgjo AS. Production now focuses on high-quality restaurant ceramics, but the iconic vintage designs from the mid-century era remain highly sought-after.
The distinctive design of Figgjo Flint
Figgjo Flint stands for playful, colorful, and often hand-drawn patterns. The designs from the 1950s to 1970s are strongly influenced by Scandinavian aesthetics, but with a more cheerful, artistic touch.
1. Colorful patterns and retro colors
Many Figgjo Flint series are decorated with striking patterns. Flowers, leaves, fruits, and even small figurines adorn the porcelain. Particularly popular are collections such as:
Lotte (1962) – a playful design with hand-drawn girl figures in blue and green tones.
Turi designs – designed by designer Turi Gramstad Oliver, often with detailed illustrations.
Market – a pattern featuring farmers market scenes in bright colors that offers a charming, nostalgic look.
2. Scandinavian functionality
In addition to its playful appearance, Figgjo Flint ceramics are also extremely functional. The shapes are often simple and practical, making the pieces ideal for everyday use.
3. Craftsmanship and quality
Although Figgjo Flint was designed for mass production, it stands out for its high quality. The ceramics are robust, durable, and feature a fine glaze that protects the decoration. Many pieces survive for decades in excellent condition—a testament to the brand's craftsmanship.
Why is Figgjo Flint so popular today?
Vintage ceramics from Figgjo Flint are currently experiencing a real comeback. The reasons for this are:
✔ Retro charm: The mid-century aesthetic with colorful patterns fits perfectly into modern homes.
✔ Collectible value: Many designs are hard to find today and fetch high prices at flea markets or online platforms.
✔ Sustainability: Instead of buying new tableware, more and more people are opting for long-lasting vintage pieces.
✔ Scandinavian design history: Figgjo Flint is a piece of Norwegian cultural history and a prime example of the region's creative potential.
Conclusion: A must-have for vintage fans
Figgjo Flint stands for Scandinavian craftsmanship, playful design, and an extra dose of nostalgia. The brand shaped the 1950s to 1970s with its colorful patterns and remains an icon of Norwegian ceramic design to this day.
Whether as a collectible, decorative item, or functional tableware – Figgjo Flint's cheerful designs bring a touch of Scandinavian joie de vivre to any home. Anyone interested in vintage ceramics should definitely keep an eye out for these special pieces!