Scandinavian pottery picks

Having not found any for a while, we’ve picked up some very nice pieces of vintage Scandinavian pottery recently. And hailing from Scandinavia isn’t all they have in common. Gorgeous, colourful patterns also link them!

Up first, we have the pretty yellow daisies on a lidded dish produced by Egersund of Norway.

Then we have blue hearts and flowers of the Sirpa pattern designed by Raija Uosikkinen on this lovely salt pot by Arabia of Finland.

And finally, one of our favourite designs – the repeating, stylised green leaves of this Bersa bowl produced by Gustavsberg of Sweden – designed by the wonderful Stig Lindberg, of course.

So, three different countries of manufacture however, a distinct collective look. And if you really like them, check out our webshop – at least two of these pieces will be appearing for sale very soon.

Forthcoming Attractions: Mid-May 2018

_{click on each image to go to its page in our web shop}

Here’s a small selection of items destined for the web shop this week. Top left, we have a very nice vintage cane carry basket. It was the lovely shape that first attracted us to this piece. Initially, we thought that it might be sewing related, with sections for knitting needles and other craft materials… but having thought about it, we now reckon that it might be intended for a picnic. In the centre, it has four compartments that would accommodate bottles – and smaller sections around the outside for sandwiches and other snacks. What do you think?

We’ll leave that question hanging in the air and move onto top right – a gorgeous little set of egg cups. They’re made by Figgjo Flint of Norway – we love this cheery daisy pattern. The perfect way to start the day!

A bit more pottery at bottom left, albeit on a slightly larger scale. This planter was designed by Glyn Colledge and produced by Denby Langley in the early 1960s. With the current trend for cacti and succulents in mind, we think that this piece would be perfect for them – either one large example or a small collection in various shapes and sizes.

And, last but not least, we have the very cute small vintage oil lamp at bottom right. We believe it’s called a Pixie, Luna or Kelly lamp – the self-righting form designed for use in air raid shelters during the Second World War. We’ve had these in various colours over the years and we particularly like this delicate powder blue shade.

Designer Desire: Louis Hudson

We have one or two examples of Louis Hudson studio pottery in our personal collection, and we’ve just listed another in our web shop. Therefore, we thought it an opportune time to feature him as this week’s Designer Desire appointee.

Hudson founded his pottery in Trethevy, Cornwall in 1971; only to give it up in 1983, to become a lorry driver!! This is probably why I could find very little information about him online. Despite this short period of production, his work can be found easily and at an affordable price on eBay and Etsy.

We think it’s a bit undervalued, at present. It’s got a classic look from the period – sculptural form, abstract patterns and muted natural tones. It works well in groupings or as stand-alone pieces.

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International vintage

Our recent acquisitions have a ’round the world’ theme.

We’ll start with Finland. Vintage glassware fans will recognise the sculptural form and distinctive olive green colour of the Riihimäki vase. These vases look amazing when arranged in groups or rows, highlighting the contrast in shapes and size. And then the enamel mugs – what a gorgeous colour and pattern. They were designed by Kaj Franck for Finel – and are very hard to find in this condition and quantity.

Next, on to Italy, where this fabulous little pin dish was produced. The hand decorated piece has very eye-catching decoration; she’s a very beautiful and arresting young lady – reminiscent of the work of Modigliani. It’s the perfect little dish for rings or other jewellery. And more pretty girls on this Avon ‘Her World’ Talc. Cosmetic products aren’t something that we normally pick up – but it’s unused with contents intact – and the illustrations are so gorgeous that we couldn’t resist. The label reads “Avon Cosmetics – New York, London, Munchen, Paris, Rome” – a very apt item for our little global product trip!

These Konge tinn pewter napkin rings hail from Norway. They have a striking and intricate Viking themed design with warriors and ships. They’re very tactile in the hand – keep your dinner guests happy for hours! And last, but not least, a charming vintage enamel candle holder that we’re pretty sure was made in France. We love the delicate ribbed pattern, aged patina and fabulous emerald green colour.

These international vintage products and others will be heading to our web shop soon – click on each item image to find it!

H is for Home Harbinger

Tag: pottery

Scandinavian pottery picks

Forthcoming Attractions: Mid-May 2018

Designer Desire: Louis Hudson

International vintage