This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.
Vicke Lindstrand (1904 – 1983) worked at Orrefors Glasbruk as a glassware designer.
Vicke Lindstrand – Quick Reference
Full Name: Viktor Emanuel Lindstrand
Born: 27 November 1904, Gothenburg, Sweden
Died: 7 May 1983
Nationality: Swedish
Known For: Glass design, engraving, graal glass innovation
Major Manufacturers: Orrefors, Kosta
Movement: Scandinavian Modern / Swedish Grace
Lindstrand helped shape the international reputation of Swedish glass during the twentieth century.
Biography
He worked at Kariskrona Porslinsfabrik from 1935 to 1936, Upsala-Ekeby from 1936 to 1950 (as art director from 1943 to 1950), and Kosta Boda Glassworks from 1950 to 1973, where he was design director while also maintaining his studio in Arhus. His free-form work was often engraved.
He pioneered more daring art glass designs at Orrefors. He co-invented the Ariel technique with Edvin hrström and Knut Bergqvist. He was the dominant designer at Kosta, lending his name to several now-classic designs. At this point, Lindstrand began infusing his creations with increasing colour, resulting in iconic designs such as Trees in the Fog and Autumn.
Works
What Is Graal Glass?
Graal glass is a decorative technique developed at the Swedish glassworks Orrefors in the early twentieth century. The process involves engraving or carving a thick glass blank before reheating it and encasing it within a layer of clear crystal.
- ✔ Created through multiple reheating stages
- ✔ Engraved designs become sealed inside the glass
- ✔ Produces rich colour depth and sculptural effects
- ✔ Widely used by designers including Vicke Lindstrand and Edward Hald
The graal technique helped establish Swedish glass as one of the most innovative art forms of the modern decorative arts movement.
1930 Stockholm World Fair
He made his debut as a designer at the 1930 Stockholm World Fair. He displayed twelve glass vases decorated in exotic patterns with enamel. As a result, he garnered considerable attention from international design publications. Lindstrand added new artistic dimensions to the already famous Orrefors glass with his unique designs and revitalisation of classic forms and techniques.
Collecting Vicke Lindstrand Glass
Original glass by Vicke Lindstrand remains highly collectible. Pieces produced at Orrefors and Kosta are especially valued for their craftsmanship and innovative techniques.
Collectors often look for:
- ✔ Signed Orrefors graal vases
- ✔ Engraved crystal designs
- ✔ Sculptural Kosta art glass
- ✔ Early experimental pieces
Condition, signature, and provenance significantly influence value in the collectors’ market.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing.
Wikipedia contributors. (2021, February 2). Vicke Lindstrand. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:51, April 27, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Vicke_Lindstrand&oldid=1004418655
More on Swedish Designers
Sustainable TRIWA Watches: Eco-Friendly Timepieces
The Triwa Humanium Metal Watch blends minimalist design with sustainability, utilizing recycled firearms to create a stylish timepiece symbolizing peace and environmental responsibility.
Keep reading
The Brilliance of Swedish Glass, 1918-1939: An Alliance of Art and Industry
Between 1918 and 1939, Swedish glass emerged as a global design leader, blending artistry and functionality, showcasing innovation, unique techniques, and gaining international acclaim as a celebrated craft.
Keep reading
Gunnar Asplund: Pioneer of Scandinavian Modernism
Gunnar Asplund significantly shaped modernist architecture by merging Swedish traditions with contemporary design. His works, including the Stockholm Public Library and Woodland Cemetery, emphasize simplicity and functionality.
Keep readingRelated Articles
Discover more from Encyclopedia of Design
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.