Vase by Mogens Balle

Vase

Mogens Balle · 1948

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“Stop to appreciate the raw, organic beauty of this stoneware vase. Its rugged texture and earthy glazes capture a moment in Danish design when artists were celebrating the expressive power of natural materials.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This stoneware vase, made in 1948, presents a robust, organic form that feels both ancient and strikingly modern. Its surface is a landscape of earthy tones, with glazes that ripple and pool, creating a textured, almost geological effect. The irregular contours suggest a hand-built quality, a deliberate departure from industrial perfection, which was a significant trend in Danish ceramics during the mid-20th century. Look closely at how the light catches the uneven surface, revealing subtle shifts in color from deep ochre to a muted, almost volcanic gray. This piece embodies a fascination with natural materials and forms, transforming humble clay into a sculptural object that invites touch and close inspection. It speaks to a moment when artists were exploring the expressive potential of craft, pushing the boundaries of functional design into the realm of abstract art.

DETAILS
Artist
Mogens Balle
Date
1948
Medium
Stoneware and glaze
Location
Art Institute of Chicago
Dimensions
15.4 × 13.4 × 13.3 cm (6 1/8 × 5 5/16 × 5 1/4 in.)
Collection
Arts of the Americas
Culture
Oakland
Credit line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. William G. Swartchild Jr.
ART MOVEMENTS
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Vase
01

The rich, varied texture of the glaze, like cooled lava.

02

Subtle shifts in color from deep brown to lighter, sandy tones.

03

The irregular, almost asymmetrical shape of the vase's body.

04

The slightly flared, organic opening at the top.

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AUDIO DEEP DIVE

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THE ARTIST

Mogens Balle

1921–1988 · Kingdom of Denmark

Mogens Balle, a Danish painter, created vibrant, abstract works, often exploring the spontaneous and experimental.

Read Balle’s full story
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EXPLORE THE MOVEMENT

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