Vase in Bronze, 1940s

This bronze vase, produced in Sweden during the 1940s by an unknown designer, exemplifies a classical form rendered through the lens of mid-20th-century Scandinavian metalwork. The vessel is characterized by its symmetrical silhouette, with a gently rounded body that tapers into a short neck, from which three elegantly curved handles emerge. These handles are structurally and visually integral, extending from the neck to the vessel’s shoulders in a continuous arc, reinforcing both balance and visual cohesion.

The surface of the bronze is enriched by a deep, dark patina that has developed naturally over time. This patina not only enhances the material’s tonal variation but also imparts a sense of historical depth, underscoring the object’s vintage status. The surface texture is subtly uneven, with minor abrasions and imperfections that are consistent with age and use. These signs of wear do not detract from the vase’s presentation; rather, they lend an authenticity that reflects the passage of time and previous handling.

Engraved inscriptions are present on the vase, offering indications of provenance. While the designer remains unidentified, such inscriptions suggest that the piece may have been commissioned or presented for a specific occasion, adding a layer of narrative to the object’s history.

With dimensions of 18 cm in diameter and 21 cm in height (7.1 × 8.3 inches), the vase possesses a compact but substantial presence. Its proportions are balanced and classical, echoing amphora-like forms that draw on antique precedents while being executed in a distinctly 20th-century idiom. The tri-handled configuration is both decorative and functional, contributing to the vase’s sculptural rhythm.

This piece represents a thoughtful example of Swedish bronze work from the mid-1900s, where traditional materials and forms were maintained even as modern design aesthetics gained prominence. Its craftsmanship, materiality, and condition position it as a collectible object of understated historical and artistic interest.

Additional information:
Material: Bronze
Style: Art Deco, Scandinavian Modern
Period: 1940s
Country: Sweden
Dimensions: H: 21 / D: 18
Item Number: 156527