Friedl Kjellberg Large Ceramic Vase for Arabia, Turquoise Glaze, 1950s

A striking and rare large-scale ceramic vase by Friedl Kjellberg for Arabia, dating to the late 1940s to early 1950s. This sculptural vessel showcases Kjellberg’s refined approach to glazing, featuring a beautifully controlled double-layer technique. The upper glaze, in a soft turquoise-green tone, flows organically over the body, creating a gentle, melting effect that contrasts with the warm, natural base beneath.

The glaze continues seamlessly into the interior, demonstrating a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The surface reveals subtle crackling and tonal variation, enhancing the tactile and visual depth of the piece. The vase is marked “Arabia” and signed with Kjellberg’s monogram “FHK,” confirming its authenticity.

A superb example of mid-century Scandinavian ceramic design, this piece embodies both technical innovation and understated elegance, making it a standout addition to any collection.

Friedl Kjellberg (1905–1993) was an Austrian-born ceramic artist best known for her pioneering work at Arabia, Finland’s leading porcelain manufacturer. She moved to Finland in 1924 and became one of the company’s most influential designers, working there for several decades. Kjellberg is celebrated for developing the technically demanding rice porcelain technique, in which delicate perforations are filled with glaze to create a translucent, lace-like surface.

Her refined bowls, cups, and vessels exemplify a balance of innovation, craftsmanship, and understated elegance. Her work was widely exhibited internationally and received numerous awards, including gold medals in Brussels (1935) and Milan (1954). Today, Kjellberg’s designs are considered iconic examples of mid-20th-century Scandinavian ceramics and remain highly collectible.