Brown and Cream White Stoneware Bowl by Andersson & Johansson for Hgans, 1920s for sale at Pamono

This exquisite hand-crafted Scandinavian stoneware decorative dish or Boel by Andersson & Johansson, Hgans, features traditional folk art motifs in white against a rich terracotta-brown background. Inspired by the Swedish folk art painting tradition called “Kurbits”, the dish features whimsical white designs of flowers and intricate decorative elements, all finished with a glossy transparent glaze that enhances its vibrancy. Its striking terracotta-brown body, complemented by cream-white decoration, showcases a bold modernist shape, imparting a dynamic and sculptural quality. Designed by John Andersson (1899-1969), this piece includes two holes on the foot ring for convenient wall hanging, though it also looks stunning displayed on a table, shelf, or sideboard. Marked on the underside with deep stamps reading “Hgans” and the logo for Andersson & Johansson (in use from 1920 to 1958), this handmade bowl is a true testament to Swedish craftsmanship. Founded in 1909 by Johannes Olofsson and Sigfrid Johansson, Andersson & Johansson (Hgans Keramik) began by producing utility and household items, similar to those made by Hgansbolaget but with a more colorful palette. Notably, they crafted the iconic yellow “Hganskrukorna” along with many decorative objects and miniatures designed by John Andersson. After acquiring Nyman & Nyman in 1956, the company was renamed Andersson & Johansson – Hgans Keramik. Following a name change of Hgansbolaget to Hgans AB in 1967, Andersson & Johansson shortened their name to Hgans Keramik. In 1988, Hgans Keramik merged with the newly formed Boda Nova, and in 2008, the Swedish factory was closed. Today, Hgans Keramik is owned by the Iittala Group in Finland.