Pair of Rune Cups & Bowls, Jens H. Quistgaard, 1969-1988

After the candlesticks, comes the more everyday side of Quistgaard. The Rune series is one of his most recognizable collections and became an international icon in the mid-20th century. It achieved enormous success in the United States and especially in Japan, where an obsession formed around this design. The decoration on the pieces draws inspiration from ancient runic inscriptions, the alphabet of Germanic and Scandinavian peoples before adopting the Latin script. Grooves, lines, and diamonds are carved into the material, creating tactile depth felt in the palm of your hand. Quistgaard, trained as a sculptor and silversmith, designed even industrial pieces to feel almost handmade. No two units are completely identical. There's subtle variation in shade, texture, and glaze. The set is made of durable stoneware with a semi-matte glaze in olive green that opens to warm amber tones. A quiet, warm material, very pleasant to touch and ages beautifully. The Rune series was produced over the years by three different manufacturers (Kronjyden / Nissen / Bing & Grøndahl), so you can find different signatures on identical items. All are original, all part of the same design continuum. Quistgaard's works are displayed today in permanent collections of museums, including the Danish Museum of Art & Design in Copenhagen. And still, these are pieces meant for everyday life. Coffee, tea, a small bowl nearby.

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