’Argenta’, silver meaning in green by Wilhelm Kåge.

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In the 1920s, Kåge created the Argenta series. It became commercially successful at the Stockholm Exhibition of 1930. Argenta stoneware includes neoclassical and art deco style urns, sculptures, crocks, bowls, and vases with their signature green glaze and silver decor with depictions of dragons, flowers, and stripes, and other exciting imagery. Some variations of this series include blue, brown, celadon green, and red colors and were produced into the 1970s.

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Born in Stockholm in 1889 he stayed in his hometown and attended University College of Arts, Crafts, and Design, continuing in Munich. He became an accomplished illustrator known for his vivid poster art. Gustavsberg porcelain factory took notice and hired him. Despite not being previously trained in ceramics, he was brought on for his bold new perspective. It worked. He established the Gustavsberg studio in 1942. He later became artistic director before Stig Lindberg became so in 1949. He was prolific at the studio until he died in 1960.

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Seen here is a great example of Kåge’s signature series, a substantial green vase with elegant shape and silver stripe decoration, Untitled (from Argentina series, for Gustavsberg, Sweden). c. 1950s. It is marked with the maker stamp and ‘Argenta A21 Made in Sweden’ on the base standing at a height of 8 1/2 inches and width of 7 inches.