Hej everyone,
Swedish porcelain – the mere thought of it evokes a special fascination in me. Perhaps it's because it embodies a wonderful blend of timeless elegance, innovative design, and Swedish craftsmanship. Two names stand out in particular: Rörstrand and Gustavsberg . Both manufacturers are synonymous with quality and design that are admired not only in Sweden, but worldwide.
In this post, I'll take you on a journey of discovery through these two iconic porcelain brands. Together, we'll delve into their history and get to know the designers who shaped them—from Margareta Hennix and Wilhelm Kåge to Sven Jonson and Olle Alberius .
The story of Rörstrand
Rörstrand is one of the oldest porcelain manufacturers in the world. Founded in Stockholm in 1726, the factory initially produced faience. In the 19th century, production switched to hard-paste porcelain, which quickly made the brand known beyond Sweden's borders.
A milestone in Rörstrand 's history was the involvement of designers like Marianne Westman, who created a true classic with her "Mon Amie" series. Her blue flowers on white porcelain remain a symbol of Scandinavian simplicity and beauty to this day.
But Rörstrand is far more than just traditional. Designers like Olle Alberius have also given the brand a modern, artistic touch. His work is characterized by minimalist lines and often geometric patterns that were ahead of their time.
Gustavsberg: Creativity and Innovation
Founded in 1825, Gustavsberg was a brand focused on innovation and creativity from the very beginning. It was particularly shaped by exceptional designers in the 20th century. One of the most important names is Wilhelm Kåge, who revolutionized the manufactory with his "Argenta" and "Farsta" series. His designs represented a bold step away from purely functional porcelain and toward art objects with a distinctive character.
Margareta Hennix, another important Gustavsberg designer, brought a contemporary lightness to the collections with her clean and modern forms. Her works prove that porcelain can be both practical and artistic.
Olle Alberius, who worked for both Gustavsberg and later Rörstrand , had an equally significant influence. His designs are characterized by organic forms and vibrant patterns, often inspired by nature. Alberius masterfully incorporated the Swedish landscape into his work.
Sven Jonson: Art and Porcelain
What I particularly admire about Sven Jonson is his ability to use porcelain as a canvas for his artistic vision. Jonson was originally a painter and graphic artist, but his collaboration with Rörstrand has produced some of his most interesting designs. His work often combines geometric patterns with a subtle color palette that perfectly fits the Scandinavian style.
Olle Alberius: The poet of forms
Olle Alberius was a true multitalent. He worked with glass, ceramics, and porcelain, bringing his unmistakable signature to every piece. For Gustavsberg and Rörstrand, he created timeless pieces that captivate with their simple elegance and closeness to nature. Alberius had a knack for combining form and color into harmonious works of art.
Why is Swedish porcelain so special?
For me, the fascination with Swedish porcelain lies in its versatility. It combines functionality with aesthetics and tells stories that are often inspired by nature. Whether you're a fan of classic patterns or prefer modern, minimalist designs, Rörstrand and Gustavsberg have something for everyone.
I find it particularly impressive how designers consistently succeed in combining tradition and innovation. A piece of Swedish porcelain is not just a utility item, but a small work of art that enriches your everyday life.
Conclusion
Rörstrand and Gustavsberg are far more than just porcelain brands—they are an important part of Swedish culture and history. Designers such as Wilhelm Kåge, Margareta Hennix, Sven Jonson, and Olle Alberius have pushed the boundaries of what's possible in porcelain design with their works, giving us timeless classics.
If you're looking for special pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, it's worth delving into the world of Swedish porcelain . I hope I've given you a little inspiration—and who knows, maybe you'll soon discover your own little piece of Sweden.