Today, the name Svenskt Tenn is associated around the world with the vibrant, modernist textiles and furniture of Josef Frank, who was the Swedish company’s chief designer in the mid-20th century. But the term “svenskt tenn” actually means “Swedish pewter,” and the very first goods the company sold were stylish pewter objects, such as an elegant 1927 candelabra found in the collection of the Saint Louis Art Museum, or a sleek, understated mirror in the collection of the National Museum of Fine Arts. These pieces were designed to appeal to discerning but price-conscious shoppers in 1920s-era Stockholm.
Art teacher and interior designer Estrid Ericson (1894–1981) partnered with pewter artisan Nils Fougstedt (1881–1954) to establish Svenskt Tenn in 1924, and their creations quickly gained a reputation for high quality and affordability, winning a gold medal at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris in 1925 — the design fair that brought global attention to the Art Deco style.
The experience of renovating her own apartment in the 1920s exposed Ericson to Swedish functionalism — or funkis, as it was known in Sweden — a branch of modernism that advocated uncomplicated forms, subdued colors and utility. She was inspired to open an interior design department at Svenskt Tenn, and in 1930 the firm introduced its first line of furniture.
Selections included items produced by the companies Gemla and Bodafors, as well as original designs by Ericson and the architects Uno Åhrén and Björn Trägårdh, who had worked together on the redesign and expansion of the showroom. The trio’s furniture was displayed at Stockholm’s Galleri Modern in 1931, where it was met with praise from critic Gotthard Johansson, a leading proponent of Swedish functionalism. Johansson admired the “pure lines” and “modern austerity” of the furniture, establishing Svenskt Tenn as an important voice in Swedish design.
But the signature partnership that would come to define the look of Svenskt Tenn was in part the result of political turmoil and the emergence of Nazism in Europe. When Josef Frank fled Vienna for Stockholm in 1933, he was already an accomplished architect who questioned modernist orthodoxy in design. He disliked tubular steel furniture and believed that monochromatic surfaces were distressing to viewers, while pattern and ornament gave interiors a sense of warmth and calm. Ericson was an admirer of Frank’s work, and offered him the chance to design products for Svenskt Tenn. Their professional partnership, particularly in textile design, would eventually become one of the hallmarks of Swedish modernism.
Frank and Ericson collaborated from 1934 until Frank’s death in 1967, with Frank creating unmistakable, bold designs and Ericson employing her flair for interiors, merchandising and display. The pair called their shared approach “Accidentism” or “The Happy Chances Philosophy,” mixing and matching the new and antique, the serious with the playful and pattern with solid colors to find eclectic new combinations in their showroom.
Frank’s textiles are like a visual catalogue of exotic plants and flowers, geological formations and maps, inspired in part by Ericson’s world travels and by Frank’s love of folk art. Svenskt Tenn continues to sell fabric, wallpaper and household goods, many of which sport variations of Frank's signature botanical motifs. Antique and vintage Svenskt Tenn pewter, lighting, furniture, textiles and decorative objects are generally priced anywhere from $2,500 to $25,000 depending on scale and condition.
The tenets of Scandinavian modernism are as fresh and relevant now as they were in the 1950s — light-filled and airy rooms with white walls are perfect settings for comfortable furniture upholstered in one of Josef Frank’s indelible patterns, and nearly a century since its founding, the signature aesthetic of Svenskt Tenn remains as distinctive and timeless as ever.
Find antique and vintage Svenskt Tenn mirrors, seating, tables and other furniture on 1stDibs.
Swedish Art Deco Pewter Amphora Vase by Svenskt Tenn, 1930s
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
A refined Swedish Art Deco pewter amphora vase, designed for Svenskt Tenn in the 1930s. This elegant piece features a classical silhouette with a tall, tapering body and distinctive ...
Pewter
Swedish Art Deco Pewter Vase by Svenskt Tenn, 1935
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
A striking Swedish Art Deco pewter vase by Svenskt Tenn, made in 1935. This refined and sculptural piece exemplifies the elegant modernism that defined Swedish design in the early 20...
Pewter
Swedish Modern Art Deco Pewter Centerpiece Bowl by Bröderna Edlund, 1929
By Folke Arstrom, GAB Guldsmedsaktiebolaget, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
A striking Swedish Art Deco centerpiece bowl in pewter, designed by Folke Arström for Bröderna Edlund and dated 1929. This elegant piece features a flared, scalloped rim and rests on...
Pewter
Set of Swedish Grace Pewter Candle Sconces, 1930s, Sweden
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Værløse, DK
Set of Pewter Wall Candle Sconces made by Svensk Tenn. A fine duo for a beautiful home. * Pair (2) of Pewter Wall Candlestick Holders * Manufacturer: Svenskt Tenn * Year: est. 1930...
Pewter
Swedish Art Deco Pewter Lidded Box, 1930s
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Elegant Swedish pewter lidded box produced by Bröderna Edlund Silverfabrik, dated 1936. This refined piece features a clean cylindrical form raised on small decorative feet, topped ...
Pewter
Swedish Pewter Vase by Nils Fougstedt for Firma Svenskt Tenn, 1930
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Elegantly designed pewter vase by Nils Fougstedt for Firma Svenskt Tenn, in a spherical form with a wide opening.
Pewter
20th Century Silver Swedish Svenskt Tenn Candle Holder by Josef Frank
By Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A silver, vintage Mid-Century Modern Swedish " Vänskapsknuten " candle holder made of handcrafted silvered metal, designed by Josef Frank and produced by Svenskt Tenn in good conditi...
Metal
Swedish Modern - Large pewter vase - Ernst Svedbom, Svenskt Tenn 1960's
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Elegant pewter vase designed by Ernst Svedbom for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, circa 1960s. This beautifully balanced vessel features a classical amphora form with sweeping sculptural handl...
Pewter
Swedish Grace Pewter Candlesticks by Ernst Swedbom, 1930s, Sweden
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Værløse, DK
Elegant Art Nouveau Pewter Candleholders designed by Ernest Swedbom in the 1930s. * Set (2) of pewter candlestick holders. * Manufacturer: Ernst Swedbom * Country: Sweden * Year: 1...
Pewter
Art Deco Pewter Globe Vase by Nils Fougstedt for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1930.
By Nils Fougstedt, Just Andersen, Svenskt Tenn, Josef Frank, Estrid Ericson
Located in Malmö, SE
A stunning pewter bowl with brass details and wood handles. Designed by Nils Fougstedt in 1929 and made from 1930 by Firma Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm, Sweden. This vase is made in 2017....
Pewter, Brass
Svenskt Tenn Adam and Eve Pewter and Wood Art Deco Decorative Box, Sweden 1920s
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Milan, IT
Splendid Svenskt Tenn Adam and Eve Pewter and Wood Art Deco Decorative Box, Swedish Grace Sweden 1920s
Pewter
Art Deco Pewter Bowl - Nude Relief by Nordiska Juvelaktiebolaget, Sweden 1937
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
An evocative Swedish Art Deco pewter bowl produced by Nordiska Juvelaktiebolaget (NJ) during the 1930s. This finely crafted piece features a bas-relief of a nude female figure kneeli...
Pewter
Pewter and brass Jewelry box by Nils Fougstedt for Svenskt Tenn, 1953
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Hägersten, SE
Jewelry box designed by Nils Fougstedt. Produced by Firma Svenskt Tenn, this example made in 1953. Made from pewter with brass edges. Good vintage condition with age related patina a...
Brass, Pewter
Swedish Grace Pewter Vase by Tyra Lundgren, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1929
By Svenskt Tenn, Tyra Lundgren Carolina
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Amazing, rare pewter vase by Tyra Lundgren, with a playful etched motif of children playing among greenery. Graphic decor around the rim and base.
Pewter
Svenskt Tenn Pewter Lidded Box, Sweden 1936, Scandinavian Modern
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
A refined and rare pewter lidded box by Svenskt Tenn, dated 1936, exemplifying the elegance and craftsmanship of early Scandinavian Modern design. The piece features a clean hexagona...
Pewter
$1,425Sale Price|25% Off
A vase by Svenkst Tenn
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Long Island City, NY
A vintage vase produced by Svenkst Tenn. Sweden Circa 1940s. Pewter and brass. Marked " Modern Metallkunst Svenkst Tenn".
Pewter
Writing Set by Ernst Svedbom for Svenskt Tenn, 1934
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Long Island City, NY
Writing, seven parts set in pewter by Ernst Svedbom (1913-2004), Goldsmith AB for Swedish Tenn, circa 1934-1936. Marked: SG A-B Svenskt Tenn K8. A pair...
Swedish Grace Pewter Bowl with Polar Bears by Lundin & Lindberg, 1930s, Sweden
By Lundin & Lindberg, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Værløse, DK
Swedish Grace Pewter Bowl on Foot with Polar Bears made by Lundin & Lindberg in 1930s. * Pewter Bowl on Foot with Polar Bears * Designer: Lundin & Lindberg * Country: Sweden * Year...
Pewter
Swedish Art Deco Pewter and Brass Pear Vase by Björn Trägårdh for Svenskt Tenn
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Swedish Art Deco vase designed by Björn Trägårdh in 1933 for Svenskt Tenn of Stockholm. Composed of a pear or gourd-form vessel in pewter surmounted by a brass rim. Good, vintage con...
Brass, Pewter
1930s Swedish Pewter Handled Vase by Svenskt Tenn Handarbete
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
Great art deco Swedish vase in pewter. Produced by Svenskt Tenn Handarbete. Nice simple lines would work in so many interior styles
Pewter
Tobacco jar by HARALD LINDER
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Long Island City, NY
Tobacco jar by HARALD LINDER. Pewter for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden. Circa 1920th/30th. The sides with engraved decoration and applied relief decoration in the form of Adam and Eve in t...
Pewter
Pair of Josef Frank Six-Armed Candelabra for Firma Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1940s
By Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Few objects carry a room quite like a lit candelabra. This petite pair, designed by Josef Frank for Firma Svenskt Tenn in the 1940s, Sweden, does so with characteristic wit — five ar...
Brass
Midcentury Scandinavian Pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1954
By Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Lovely pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, in a cylinder form. Brass rims around the edges, adorned with a banded agate stone in red and white nuances.
Brass, Pewter
Pewter Jar by Anna Petrus, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1931
By Svenskt Tenn, Anna Petrus
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Amazing pewter jar by Anna Petrus, with a line of brass encircling the base and lid. Expressive lion on the lid, body decorated with a graphic pattern.
Brass, Pewter
Lidded Pewter Jar A605 - Nils Fougstedt 1931 - Firma Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Stockholm, SE
A wonderful lidded jar designed by Nils Fougstedt for Firma Svenskt Tenn in Stockholm and made in 1931. The jar features scenes from the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve, and the animals...
Pewter
Midcentury Scandinavian Pewter jar, Nils Fougstedt, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1936
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Sleek pewter jar by Nils Fougstedt, in a compact form. Knob made partially from brass, decorative brass rim around the base.
Pewter, Brass
Midcentury Scandinavian Pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1954
By Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Elegant pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, in a cylinder form. Brass rims around the edges for a warm contrast against the dusty grey.
Brass, Pewter
Swedish Modern Brass Candelabra by Lars Holmström for Svenskt Tenn, 1950
By Josef Frank, Gunnar Ander, Pierre Forssell, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brussels, Brussels
A striking candelabra in solid brass, designed by Lars Holmström for Svenskt Tenn. This sculptural piece features a sinuous, tubular structure rising from a circular base, supporting...
Brass
Hand painted "Apple" jar by Josef Frank for Svenskt tenn
By Svenskt Tenn, Josef Frank
Located in Hägersten, SE
Rare lidded jar in the shape of an apple designed by Josef Frank. Produced by Firma Svenskt Tenn during the 1950s. Made from Aluminum with hand painted decor. Very good vintage condi...
Aluminum
Pair of Swedish Modern Brass candle-sticks Lars Holmström for Svenskt Tenn, 1950
By Pierre Forssell, Josef Frank, Gunnar Ander, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brussels, Brussels
Elegant pair of Swedish Modern candlesticks in solid brass, dating from the 1950s. Each piece features a central tubular element designed to hold one candle. This central element is ...
Brass
Pedestal Swedish Grace Pewter Bowl by Svenkst Tenn, 1930s, Sweden
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Værløse, DK
Pedestal Pewter Bowl made by Svenskt Tenn in the early 1930s. A beautiful piece for an exquisite table. * A large pewter bowl on foot * Manufacturer...
Pewter
Large pewter bowl with handles, Swedish Grace, Firma Svenskt Tenn
By Svenskt Tenn, Bjorn Tragardh, Estrid Ericson
Located in Stockholm, SE
Unique, large bowl in pewter by renowned swedish designer Björn Trägårdh for Firma Svenskt Tenn, founded in 1924 by Estrid Ericson. In good condition, normal signs of age and wear....
Pewter
1930s Polished Pewter Vase by Folke Arström for Svenskt Tenn
By Folke Arstrom, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brooklyn, NY
1930s, Sweden. This pewter vase features geometric and star engravings around the rim, with smooth, rounded handles on each side. The maker’s mark is located on the bottom.
Pewter
1920s Polished Pewter Globe Vase by Svenskt Tenn with Beaded Handle Details
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brooklyn, NY
1920s, Sweden. Polished pewter globe vase by Svenskt Tenn with decorative leaf engraving on front and backside and beaded handle details with ribbed vase mouth. Marked by maker on un...
Pewter
Anna Petrus, Pewter Box, Firma Svenskt Tenn, 1928
By Svenskt Tenn, Anna Petrus
Located in Stockholm, SE
Box in brass and pewter with decor of a womans face. Designed by Anna Petrus for Firma Svenskt Tenn. Marked B8 = 1928.
Brass, Pewter
Brass Candlestick 'Vanskapsknuten' by Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1938
By Nils Fougstedt, Just Andersen, Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn, Estrid Ericson
Located in Malmö, SE
A beautiful brass candle holder with amazing patina. Designed by Josef Frank in 1938 and made by Firma Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm, Sweden. Excellent condition. Architect and designe...
Brass
1930s Footed Art Deco Polished Pewter Vase by Nils Fougstedt for Svenskt Tenn
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Brooklyn, NY
1930s, Stockholm. Polished pewter with footed base and sculptural flared mouth. Marked with Firma Svensk Tenn on the underside and designed by Nils Fougstedt.
Pewter
Brass Candlestick 'Vanskapsknuten' by Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1938
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt, Estrid Ericson, Just Andersen, Josef Frank
Located in Malmö, SE
A beautiful brass candle holder with amazing patina. Designed by Josef Frank in 1938 and made by Firma Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm, Sweden. Old production, this is made in the 1940s. G...
Brass
Early Svenskt Tenn Pewter Lidded Box by Ernst Svedbom, Sweden 1932
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
A refined and architecturally composed pewter lidded box designed by Ernst Svedbom for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, dated 1932. This elegant piece embodies the restrained sophistication of ...
Pewter
1930s Art Deco Swedish Polished Pewter Handled Vase/Jug by JL Hultman
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Makers mark engraved on underside. With an ornate leaf-shaped mouth and a geometric brass meander decoration. Dent on backside.
Pewter
Anna Petrus, Pewter box, Firma Svenskt Tenn, 1929
By Anna Petrus, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Box with decor of a lion, brass and pewter. Designed by Anna Petrus for Firma Svenskt Tenn. Marked C8 = 1929.
Brass, Pewter
Swedish Grace Floral Pewter "A45" Fruit Dish by Estrid Ericson for Svenskt Tenn
By Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Early Swedish Grace modern "A 45" floral pewter fruit dish by Estrid Ericson / Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn, 1920s. This iconic bowl was introduced and presented at the World Exhibit...
Pewter
Modernist Pewter Candlesticks by Nils Fougstedt for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1932
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Pair of elegant pewter candlesticks by Niels Fougstedt. Clean cut lines and decorative details.
Pewter
Brass Candlestick 'Vanskapsknuten' by Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1938
By Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn, Estrid Ericson, Nils Fougstedt, Just Andersen
Located in Malmö, SE
A beautiful brass candle holder with amazing patina. Designed by Josef Frank in 1938 and made by Firma Svenskt Tenn, Stockholm, Sweden. Excellent condition. Architect and designe...
Brass
Midcentury Scandinavian Pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1967
By Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Lovely pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, in a sleek form adorned with a brass bow on the lid.
Brass, Pewter
Polished Pewter Vase by Estrid Ericson For Svenskt Tenn
By Svenskt Tenn, Estrid Ericson
Located in Brooklyn, NY
1950s, Svenskt Tenn. This vase, also known as "the jam pot," features a stylized Art Deco architectural design. Created by Estrid Ericson in 1950-1951, it is signed on one side and h...
Pewter
Nils Fougstedt Pewter Box for Firma Svenskt Tenn, 1986
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Stockholm, SE
Nils Fougstedt (1881-1954), Pewter Box for Firma Svenskt Tenn, 1986 This is an exquisite tin box adorned with intricate meadow flowers in relief. The delicate floral patterns bring ...
Brass, Pewter
Estrid Ericson Pewter Bowl with lid adorned with a flower bud Svenskt Tenn, 1944
By Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Estrid Ericso, pewter bowl with a lid adorned with a flower bud, manufactured by Svenskt Tenn, 1944. Estrid Ericson was involved in shaping the image of modern Swedish design during ...
Pewter
Björn Trägårdh for Svenskt Tenn Candelabra in Pewter
By Bjorn Tragardh, Svenskt Tenn
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
Absolutely stunning and large 5 candle candelabra in pewter designed by Björn Trägårdh for Svenskt Tenn circa 1930s. Very few examples of this have...
Metal
Lundin & Lindberg Pewter Centerpiece Bowl for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden 1934
By Svenskt Tenn, Lundin & Lindberg
Located in Stockholm, SE
Swedish pewter centerpiece bowl designed by Lundin & Lindberg for Svenskt Tenn and dated 1934. The bowl is raised on a sculptural pedestal ...
Pewter
Pewter Footed Bowl by Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1956
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Stockholm, SE
Elegant pewter footed bowl produced by Firma Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, dated 1956. With its low, grounded foot and softly undulating rim, the piece carries a quiet sculptural presence. T...
Pewter
Midcentury Pewter Tray by Firma Svenskt Tenn 1953
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Örebro, SE
Midcentury pewter tray with beautiful detail from Firma Svenskt Tenn -1953. Wear consistent with age and use.
Pewter
Anna Petrus Firma Svenskt Tenn Lion Box 1929
By Svenskt Tenn, Anna Petrus
Located in Stockholm, SE
Box in brass and pewter with decor of a leaping lion. Designed by Anna Petrus for Firma Svenskt Tenn.
Brass, Pewter
Footed Lidded Jar by Svenskt Tenn in Pewter
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
A gorgeous Art Deco pewter lidded box by Firma Svenskt Tenn. Features three ornate feet, a velvet lined interior, and Art Deco style lid.
Metal
Pewter Inkstand by Nils Fougstedt for Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1930
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Örebro, SE
Very rare and amazing pewter inkstand with glass tube by Nils Fougstedt, adorned with a flute playing, crosslegged Pan figurine -1930. Good vintage condit...
Pewter
Pewter Box by Nils Fougstedt, Firma Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1953
By Svenskt Tenn, Nils Fougstedt
Located in Hägersten, SE
Box designed by Nils Fougstedt. Produced by Firma Svenskt Tenn, this example made in 1953. Made from pewter with brass edges. Good vintage condition with age related patina and wear....
Brass, Pewter
Josef Frank Six-Branched Candle Holder for Firma Svenskt Tenn, Sweden 1930s
By Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Utrecht, NL
In 1934, Josef Frank made his first attempt at modernizing the classic candelabra. With softly swaying forms, he eliminated the base in the middle, ...
Brass
Pewter Jar by Estrid Ericson
By Estrid Ericson, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Östermalm, Stockholms län
Elegant pewter jar by Estrid Ericson, with beautiful matte patina. Rim and lid decorated with a subtle pattern. Handle wound with blonde rattan for a nice contrast.
Pewter
1939 Art Deco Archer Pewter Lidded Box by Svenskt Tenn
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Brooklyn, NY
1939, Sweden. With archer handle pull on lid. Manufacturers mark on underside and engraving of "1939" on backside.
Pewter
Swedish Modern Pewter Bowl by Karl-Erik Torsell, 1970s, Sweden
By Svenskt Tenn
Located in Værløse, DK
Oval Pewter Tray made for Karl-Erik Torsell in the 1970s. * Oval tray in hammered pewter * Designer: Karl-Erik Torsell * Manufacturer: Svenskt Tenn * Year: 1971 (V9 impression shows...
Pewter