Birger Kaipiainen (1915-1988) was a Finnish ceramic artist, whose work is among the most distinctive in the realm of Scandinavian design. Known for his opulent and fantastical creations, Kaipiainen's ceramics are characterized by their rich decorations, vibrant colors, and imaginative motifs, often inspired by nature and fairy tales. After his studies at the School of Arts and Crafts, he worked for the Finnish ceramic company Arabia. Later, in 1954, he worked for their sister company Rörstrand. Kaipiainen's contribution to the field is marked by his innovative approach to ceramic art, blending traditional techniques with a unique, whimsical style.

Arabia

Glazed stoneware, iridescent glaze, applied beads in decorative motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Ceramics

Plate

Glazed stoneware, iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Provenance:
Kurt Ekholm (1907–1975), konstnärlig ledare på Arabia 1932–1948,
Thence by descent.

Platter

Glazed stoneware, iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Glazed stoneware, iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipianen Arabia' to the reverse.

Glazed stoneware with iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Large Bowl

Glazed stoneware with iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motifs. 
All engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Set of Four Platters

Glazed stoneware with iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motifs. 
Each engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.
All dimensions approx. the same.

Set of Three Platters

Glazed stoneware with iridescent glaze and applied beads in decorative motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Literature: 
Maria Berg, 'Kaipiainen', p. 151.

Large Platter

Glazed stoneware with iridescent glaze and applied beads in a floral motif. 
Engraved 'Kaipiainen Arabia' to the reverse.

Ceramic, ceramic beads, twisted wire. African inspired wall sculpture. Signed KAIPIAINEN.