This is a deep plate of the "Sylvia" series designed by Rorstrand, a long-established tableware manufacturer representing Sweden, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of its founding. The form design of the product was handled by Marianne Westmann, known for the Monami series, and the violet flower decoration was done by the company's designer, Silvia Leuschovius.
Silvia was launched in 1976 , the year of the wedding of King Carl Gustaf XVI of Sweden and Queen Silvia Sommerath. Although there were objections to the marriage of Queen Silvia, who was a civilian from a foreign country, Sweden's leading artists such as ABBA showed a stance to defend her. ABBA's hit "Dancing Queen" was performed for the first time the night before the wedding, and the name "Queen" is said to be a tribute to Queen Silvia. This Rorstrand 250th anniversary model named Silvia also has the intention of welcoming a new queen.
Queen Silvia has since continued her philanthropic work in the fields of aged care and child welfare and is now widely respected by the Swedish public.
The backstamp is engraved with the words "250 ar Jubileumsservis", which means "250th anniversary tableware" in Swedish. Rorstrand products have a more decorative backstamp design, which conveys a special commitment to the anniversary model.
The Silvia series was developed as a series of tableware, including cups, plates, teacups, pitchers, and creamers. Made of hard and thin bone china, the transparent glaze, beautiful patterns, and sophisticated form boast particularly high quality as rolled strand products of the 1970s.
It is also worth noting that the Sylvia series does not have the traces of supports (marks) that are common in Scandinavian vintage tableware. It is a dish with a high degree of perfection and beauty among the Nordic vintage tableware.
■ Detailed specifications
Manufacturer: Rorstrand Form design: Marianne Westman Pattern design: Sylvia Leuchovius
Series name: Sylvia Age: 1976-1982 Country of origin: Sweden Condition: ★★★☆☆ (3.5: good)
Cutlery marks can be seen on the surface of the plate when the light shines through it. One black spot can be seen on the back plateau. Overall It is in good condition with no cracks, chips or intrusions and retains the original color and luster.
■ size
Diameter 20cm Height 4cm
Marianne Westman
Marianne Westman ( Marianne Westman, 1928-2017 )
Born in the Dalarna region of central Sweden, known for Dalarna horses. In 1950, at the age of 22, he joined Rorstrand as a designer and remained there for 21 years until 1971. As the company's signboard designer, he has created numerous works and brought the masterpiece Mon Amie series to the world. Monami is a masterpiece of Scandinavian design from the mid-20th century, known as "mid-century," and is still loved around the world, with reprints still being produced . Westman's works are characterized by many designs that are conscious of plants and free-spirited patterns that appear to be drawn freehand.
Sylvia Leuchovius
Silvia Leuchovius ( Sylvia Leuchovius, 1915-2003)
Born in the Småland region of southern Sweden. Originally, he wanted to become a clothing designer and took up a job as a dressmaker, but at the age of 30, after studying art graphics at the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Gothenburg in the southwest, he changed his job to Rorstrand. He established himself as a unique artist, setting himself apart from mass production lines by manufacturing ceramic plates and still life paintings in-house. Although he has an unusual background as a designer, it is clear that he was highly regarded within the company, as he was entrusted with the design of Rorstrand's 250th anniversary model. Her ceramic motifs and her university background match those of Lisa Larson, and she has a distinct presence in the Nordic art scene.