This extra-large gratin dish is from the Dart series by Gustavsberg, a traditional Swedish pottery manufacturer. It's quite large, so please check the dimensions carefully beforehand to make sure it will fit in your cupboard.
The series name "Dart" means "darts," but the multiple, ring-like blue lines seem to represent a target. Combining a simple design with sturdiness, this is a piece that truly embodies the Nordic modern style.
Dart is a rare stoneware product among Gustavsberg's products. Stoneware is made using a method that lies somewhere between earthenware and porcelain, and combines the characteristics of both. Earthenware is porous, thick, and heavy, sometimes with the clay exposed. Porcelain, on the other hand, is thin, glazed, and fired at high temperatures, resulting in a light, lustrous finish.
Stoneware is made using ceramic materials but fired at the same temperature as porcelain, 1200°C. It is completely glazed and thick, making it extremely durable. Dart features a thick body surrounded by hand-painted light blue lines, giving a light touch to the rugged, heavy texture of stoneware. This series was produced until 1987, after Stig Lindberg's death, and is one of his later works. It is easy to use and durable enough to withstand rough handling, making it a highly recommended item from the shop owner.
■Detailed specifications
Manufacturer: Gustavsberg Designer: Stig Lindberg Series: Dart Country of Origin: Sweden Year: 1977-1987 Condition: ★★★★★ (5: Complete)
This is a deadstock item that is unused and in excellent condition with no cracks, chips or crazing.
■Size
Width 42cm, length 25cm, height 4cm, inner depth 3.3cm
Gustavsberg
Gustavsberg is a long-established Swedish pottery manufacturer founded in 1825. For more information on the history of the company , please see this article♪ The company produced bathtubs and other housing equipment, but from the late 19th century onward, they focused on producing artistic ceramics, and their name became widely known. I did. Known for its simple and beautiful designs with motifs of nature and folklore, it is a manufacturer that led Scandinavian design in the 20th century.
It produced many outstanding artists such as Lisa Larsson and Stig Lindberg, and was a central figure in the ``Mid-Century'' art movement of the mid-20th century in Northern Europe. Even today, it is highly praised for its high artistry, technical ability, and unique design that evokes the Nordic climate.
Stig Lindberg
Stig Lindberg (1916-1982)
Born in Umeå, the central city of northern Sweden. Originally from Stockholm's art school Konstfack ( Learn painting at Konstfack. He joined Gustavsberg in 1937 and gradually rose to prominence under the tutelage of his mentor, Wilhelm Koge. Twelve years later, in 1949, he succeeded Koge as the company's art director in charge of design.
Since then, Lindberg has released numerous works as a standard bearer of Swedish modernism in the mid-20th century. During Lindberg's time, the Gustavsberg workshop was at its peak, and its works from that time are recognized as works from the golden period known as ``mid-century,'' and are highly valued. Lindberg's studio is called G-Studion, where young designers are demonstrating their skills and producing famous artists such as Lisa Larson.
