Gunnar Cyrén

A Passion for Craftsmanship

Gunnar Cyrén was born in 1931 in Gävle, a city with a strong tradition of craftsmanship and industry. From an early age, he showed a burning interest in art and design, leading him to study at Konstfack in Stockholm. He trained as a goldsmith and silversmith, and it was in metalwork that his creative journey began. His ability to work with details, balance function and aesthetics, and continuously push the limits of materials laid the foundation for his future success.

The Orrefors Career – A New Era in Glass Art

In 1959, Gunnar Cyrén was hired by Orrefors, one of Sweden’s most prestigious glassworks. Here, he was given the freedom to experiment and develop his own style. During the 1960s, he created a series of groundbreaking glass designs, with the most famous series, Popglas, launched in 1967.

The Popglas series broke away from traditional glass design of the time, introducing a bold, colorful, and expressive aesthetic that quickly became a success. The glasses, with their vibrant colors and distinctive bowls, reflected a new approach to design – proving that it could be both functional and playful. They quickly gained popularity in design circles and remain sought-after collector’s items today.

The Nobel Collection – Designed for Grand Occasions

One of Gunnar Cyrén’s most celebrated achievements came in 1991 when he was given the prestigious task of designing a new glass collection for the Nobel Banquet. The result was the Nobel Collection – a series of glasses with sophisticated gold details and an exquisite design language exuding luxury and finesse. The glasses are handmade and convey a timeless elegance, making them a natural centerpiece at festive occasions.

Owning one or more glasses from the Nobel Collection means carrying on a piece of Swedish design history. Whether for an exclusive dinner or as part of an art collection, these glasses pay tribute to craftsmanship and tradition.

Silver Zoo and Other Iconic Works

Beyond his work in glass, Gunnar Cyrén was a skilled silversmith who created a series of highly sought-after metal artworks. One of his most appreciated projects was the series Silver Zoo, a collection of stylized animal figures in silver-plated metal. These figures combine humor and elegance and are now coveted collector’s items. They showcase Gunnar Cyrén’s playful approach to design and his ability to capture life and movement in a solid material.

Awards and Recognitions

Throughout his career, Gunnar Cyrén received numerous awards and prestigious commissions. In 1966, he was awarded the esteemed Lunning Prize, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Nordic Design.” In 1988, he received the Prince Eugen Medal for his outstanding contributions to art and design. In 1992, he was further honored when the Swedish government awarded him the title of professor, cementing his status as one of Sweden’s most significant designers.

Gunnar Cyrén’s Legacy Lives On

Today, Gunnar Cyrén’s designs live on through his iconic works, which continue to fascinate and inspire generation after generation. His creations are represented in museum and gallery collections worldwide, but above all, they remain part of our everyday lives.

For those who wish to experience Gunnar Cyrén’s timeless design, we offer a selection of his most cherished works. Whether you’re looking for an elegant addition to your dining table or a unique collector’s item, you can find a piece of Swedish design history to cherish and enjoy.

Explore Gunnar Cyrén’s designs and be inspired by his timeless craftsmanship!