This is a series of deep plates called Ahmet produced from the end of the 1960s to the beginning of the 1970s by ARABIA, a representative ceramic maker of Finland. It is a work produced in the golden age of Scandinavian design in the middle of the 20th century, which is called mid-century. The pattern design is Laija Uosikkinen, who was the main designer of the company. Blue flowers are colored in the shape of a crown, and it is a design that symbolizes simple and functional Scandinavian modernity, reminiscent of Marimekko's Unikko design later.
The series name Ahmet is a male name often given in the Islamic world. Perhaps it was inspired by the arabesque pattern used in arabesque patterns (Islamic geometric patterns), and the calm blue color is also a design inspired by Islamic art.
Uosikkinen was also in charge of designing the Kalevala, the hugely popular Emilia, and the annual Christmas plate. Her designs are characterized by the use of pointillism and deformed patterns. Ahmet is a relatively young work, but her characteristics are well expressed and the design is well abstracted.
■ Detailed specifications
Manufacturer: ARABIA/Arabic Pattern Design: Raija Uosikkinen Form Design: Goran Back Series Name: Ahmet Age: 1968-1973 Country of Origin: Finland Condition: ★★★☆☆ (3: average product)
It is in good condition with no cracks, chips, or paint loss, but cutlery marks and superimposed threads can be seen on the surface and edges when exposed to light. There is no problem in use, but the condition is suitable for everyday use.
Raija Uosikkinen
Raija Uosikkinen (1923-2004)
Originally from Holoran, a town in southern Finland. Graduated from Aalto University's Faculty of Fine Arts in 1947 and joined Arabia. He worked as an exclusive designer for Arabia for 40 years until 1986, and was responsible for the designs of the Emilia series and Kalevala ear plates. He often collaborated with Kai Franck, with Kai Franck generally providing the form of the product and Uosikkinen providing the decorative design.
Even after Laija Uosikkinen retired from ARABIA in 1986 , he continued to live in a house right next to his company and happily invited the company's current designers and students from Aalto University to his home, providing friendly hospitality while also serving as a mentor to future generations. He is said to have provided guidance. His most famous work, the Emilia series, is said to express his longing for life in the distant United States. After World War II, Finland was never a rich country due to a series of periods of poverty, and the longing for richness during these poor and difficult times is the background behind the creation of this masterpiece.