Berndt Friberg Oxblood Shallow Bowl

Berndt Friberg's ceramics for Gustavsberg are some of the finest examples of wheel-thrown pottery of the 20th century. His stunning portfolio of work is characterised by intricate glazes, exquisite forms, and an unsurpassed level of skill & craftpersonship. 

This decorative bowl was handmade by Friberg in 1968 and features a richly pigmented 'Sang de Boeuf' or 'Oxblood' glaze.

The 'Oxblood' glaze is technically difficult, and takes inspiration from ancient Chinese ceramics. First used in the early 1700's during the late Kangxi period, 'Oxblood' glazes have been experimentally reproduced by western ceramicists since the 19th Century. 

The glossy 'Oxblood' glaze on this elegant bowl is rich in colour but can also be described as delicate, featuring soft areas of light grey which appear like a gentle mist. These lighter areas are strongest around the bowl's edge, as they enhance the angle of the rim with a fine outline.

The bowl's gentle shape was also inspired by the exceptional nature of ancient Chinese ceramics. The inverted conical form, with distinctly bevelled rim, is reminiscent of ceramics produced during the Jin & Song Dynasties; the latter of which served as a significant source of inspiration for Friberg's artistic vision.

This bowl serves as an exquisite example of the subtlety, refinement and pure elegance of Friberg's wonderful ceramics whilst the tangible homage to ancient China adds further reverence and depth to this remarkable piece of studio pottery.