Rare 1960s Arabia Finland Hand-Painted Cobalt Lidded Jar (AK Model)
Description
A magnificent and highly collectible piece of mid-century Scandinavian modernism, this rare lidded jar/jam pot showcases the pinnacle of Arabia Finland’s golden era. Designed in the 1960s, the piece features a mesmerizing, rhythmic crescent/wave pattern executed in a deep, glossy cobalt blue.
What makes this specific piece exceptional is that it is entirely hand-painted, featuring the hand-written signature “ET / AK” on the base. While designer Esteri Tomula is world-renowned for her delicate screen-printed flora patterns, her bold, hand-painted geometric experiments from this era are far scarcer and heavily coveted by discerning collectors.
The structural form is the iconic AK model, designed by Kaarina Aho in 1959. It features a thoughtful, integrated spoon notch on the rim, allowing a serving spoon to rest perfectly while the lid remains securely closed.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Arabia Finland
Country of Origin: Finland
Production Period: 1960s
Model Designer: Kaarina Aho (AK Model, 1959)
Pattern Designer: Esteri Tomula (Hand-painted)
Material: Hard Faience (kovafajanssi)
Markings: Fully hand-signed “ARABIA Finland ET / AK” in cobalt blue on the base.
Condition Report
The jar is in excellent vintage structural condition with rich, vibrant glaze coloration. True to its age and the specific composition of 1960s Arabia faience, the white-glazed rim of the jar and lid displays a beautiful, highly characteristic fine ice-crack craquelure (hiusmurtuma / glaze crazing). This natural aging process affects only the surface glaze layer and does not compromise the structural integrity of the ceramic, adding an authentic vintage patina and individual character to this unique museum-quality piece.
