A teapot from the Marva series produced in the 1960s by Gustavsberg, a long-established Nordic pottery maker. The series name Malva means mallow or usbania in Swedish. The same kind of mallow is a perennial plant with originally purple flowers. In imitation of the flower pattern, the designer Wörquist has decorated the entire surface with a boldly deformed red floral pattern. The handle is made of rattan and has an oriental atmosphere.
It is quite difficult to keep the same design in a continuous pattern, but it is a simple and sophisticated product that is Scandinavian modern with exquisite color and balance. The Marva was designed in 1965 and manufactured until around 1970. Originally, the number of production was small, so it is a valuable item that is rarely seen even in Sweden.
■ Detailed specifications
Manufacturer: Gustavsberg Designer: Karin Bjorquist Series name: Malva Age: Around 1965-1970 Country of origin: Sweden Condition: ★★★☆☆ (3.5: good)
Minor paint loss can be seen on the sides. There are no cracks, chips, or intrusions overall, and it is in good condition as it was when it was manufactured. [Reason with reason] The rattan at the base of the handle has peeled off, exposing the underlying metal. There is no problem in using it as it is, but please consider repairing the handle before using it.
■ size
Diameter 14cm Width 20cm Height 19cm
Karin Bjorquist
Karin Bjorquist (1927-2018)
Born in the city of Saffle in Värmland County in western Sweden. Studied at Konstfack, Stockholm's art university, and joined Gustavsberg in 1950 after graduating. Initially served as an assistant to Wilhelm Koge, who was the company's art director. He stayed at Gustavsberg until 1986, during which time he invented the Indigo, Kobold, Malva, and Delicates series. The Svart Ruter series, which has diamond-shaped marks all over it, and the Vardag series, which has deep green, heavy vessels, have been long-running works.
Wjörquist's greatest work is known as Nobelservisen, which she designed to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Nobel Prize, and the tableware she designed is still used at the Nobel Prize Banquet.