Stig Lindberg (1916-1982) was one of Sweden’s most celebrated designers, known for his contributions to ceramics, textiles, and industrial design. Working for the Gustavsberg porcelain factory for much of his career, Lindberg became a versatile artist whose playful and imaginative designs left a lasting impression on Scandinavian design. In this feature we take a look at Stig Lindberg’s Iconic Karneval Series, exploring the various shapes and designs, as well as a small price guide of realised prices at auction.

The “Karneval” series, introduced in 1957, consisted of 19 vases and 13 dishes. The pieces were made of earthenware and produced until 1962. The pieces featured bold, surrealistic motifs with a distinctly whimsical charm, reflective of Lindberg’s broader artistic style. The series came in cylindrical, rectangular, block, or quadratic shapes and was characterized by bluish-white tin glazes, adorned with bright, hand-painted colours.

Each design was meticulously decorated by hand, with black outlines printed onto the ceramic body and then filled in by a team of decorators. This combination of precision and artistic freedom made each piece in the Karneval series unique.

The motifs of the Karneval range closely resemble Lindberg’s work in other mediums, such as textiles, children’s book illustrations, and even playing cards, showcasing his characteristic playful and imaginative style. The surrealistic and colourful nature of the designs struck a chord with the public, making the series a popular choice across Europe during the late 1950s and into the 1960s, despite its relatively high price.

Today, the Karneval series is highly sought after by collectors, with larger vases being especially desirable. Due to the delicate nature of the tin glaze, collectors must examine pieces carefully for chips, particularly at the rim and foot. This series remains a testament to Lindberg’s enduring creativity and his ability to blend art and function seamlessly.

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