Carafe by Marco Susani for hwc EGIZIA Sottsass Associati (Italy)

Large Hertha Bengtson floor vase for the Swedish company Rörstrand, circa 1950s. This partly glazed, signed piece is heavyweight, in excellent condition and has an earthy presence and coloration that is an inherent character of Ms. Bengtson's work. Hertha Bengtson (1917-1993) was born in the southern Sweden province of Blekinge. Early in life, she developed an interest in drawing, though her family lacked the financial means to support full-time studies. When she reached 18, Hertha finally pursued her interest in art at an evening school for porcelain painting. Only two years later, in 1939, she became employed as a pattern designer at Hackefors porcelain factory in Linkoping. Despite having only two years of evening courses in porcelain painting to back her up, Hertha had unwavering faith in her ability. After three weeks of trial work, Hertha was offered permanent employment, starting with pattern design and decor. Soon, she had a hand in most of the factory’s production. Beyond her design interests, she took on responsibilities including the management of production costs and payroll. In 1939, World War II broke out; the factory’s supervisor was called to duty. At 22 years-old, Hertha was appointed the head of her department. Two years later, Rorstrand’s Porcelain Factory in Lidkoping was in need of new talent. Hertha quickly seized the opportunity. Though she was hired to work with decor, Hertha’s curiosity steered her towards work in design. At that time, there were many accomplished artists established at the company, including Gunnar Nylund and Carl-Harry Stålhane. The level of camaraderie was equal to that of the competition for resources. Hertha had a strong interest in porcelain service, which was not considered particularly inspiring by her fellow designers. In the mid-1940s, Hertha set out to design the porcelain service of her dreams. The realization of this vision required four toilsome years engaged in the hard work of procuring quality materials, designing, firing, and glazing, all with Hertha’s characteristic persistence. When "Bla eld" (Blue Fire) was released in 1950, Hertha proved in no uncertain terms that even everyday service items can be an expression of artistic integrity. Blue fire was a sales success both in Sweden and abroad. Bolstered by the success of Blue fire, Hertha was given near full freedom at the Rorstrand to bring her artistic vision to life. Over the course of twenty-three years at Rörstrand, Hertha designed a total of six service sets, including the popular "Koka" (Cook), the refined tea service, "Ceylon", and the classically beautiful "Rosmarin" (Rosemary). Hertha also undertook small-production, experimental art works. At the same time, Hertha became something of an informal spokesperson for the factory. She was unwaveringly knowledgeable, dedicated, and eloquent. Being an energetic and ambitious professional in the 1940s and 1950s came at a cost to a woman. The possibility for work-life balance was limited, and it was no simple task to combine a career as a designer with normal family life. Hertha Bengston lived alone throughout her adult life, but maintained rich interactions with friends and colleagues. In 1964, Hertha’s surprise decision to leave Rorstrand was met with protest and disbelief. But Hertha wished to broaden her horizons by working with stoneware. She reached out to Hoganas...

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