"Argenta Dragon" Sculpture by Wilhelm Kåge

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Wilhelm Kage
"Argenta Dragon" Sculpture by Wilhelm Kåge
c. 1930

About the Item

ARGENTA DRAGON, by Wilhelm Kåge (Swedish, 1889-1960), aqua green-glazed stoneware with sterling silver accents, mounted on a custom molded wood base, c. 1930, most likely an exhibition piece. The striking mottled aqua green glaze is an early example of Kåge’s signature wares. The mythical creature is a variation of a Swedish lindorm, a wingless dragon, whose likeness dates back to 11th century runestones and belief in their existence persisted in parts of Sweden well into the 19th century. Kåge applies modernist ceramic design to this Scandinavian folkloric icon to create a seamless new Swedish classic. The sterling silver which wraps the body and its articulations acts much like the heavy black outlines of Japanese wood block prints to achieve a flattening, linear effect which harkens back to Kåge’s early work as a graphic artist. The body is compact and beefy; its power is evident by the contracted limbs and coiled tail at the ready to spring into action. With open mouth revealing a forked serpent’s tongue, the broad-lipped silver banding is smooth and continuous. This contrasts with the silver ingots inlaid in an offset pattern in three rows running down the length of the body suggestive of scales. An important piece of studio art, this is an exceptional example of Kåge’s innovative, yet, timeless appeal. Wilhelm Kåge (Swedish, 1889-1960) was a ceramicist considered the “Father of Swedish Modernism.” He trained at the University College of Arts, Crafts and Design in Stockholm and studied illustration in Munich. Early in his professional life, Kåge distinguished himself with his poster art. The Gustavsberg Porcelain Factory recognized his untapped potential and hired him in 1917 to become its Artistic Director where he remained until 1949. Over the course of these years, Kåge introduced signature styles of flint pottery and stoneware. His designs evolved to include utilitarian vessels such as crocks and bowls as well as vases and decorative objects with floral, dragons or figural motifs. 1930 marks a watershed moment for Kåge personally as an artist and in terms of The Gustavsberg Porcelain Factory’s success. Kåge burst onto the scene with a 1930 exhibition in Stockholm, introducing his now classic silver with green-glazed ceramic Argenta. He rolled out FARSTA stoneware, one of his best known lines, that same year. Although, the rare red, brown and blue Argenta exists, it is the green and silver Argenta pieces that are universally recognized as Kåge. His work can be found in the Swedish National Museum of Art and Design.

Creator:
Wilhelm Kage (1889 - 1960, Swedish)
Creation Year:
c. 1930
Dimensions:
Height: 11.5 in (29.21 cm)Width: 18.5 in (46.99 cm)Depth: 11 in (27.94 cm)
Medium:
Silver,Stoneware,Wood
Movement & Style:
Art Deco
Period:
1930-1939
Condition:
Gallery Location:
Chicago, IL
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU46738162452