Lisa Larson – Sweden’s Beloved Ceramicist and Designer
Lisa Larson was one of Sweden’s most beloved ceramicists and designers, known for her charming and playful figures that have adorned homes for generations. Her iconic works, such as the stylized cats, the smiling lions, and the humorous ABC Girls, are examples of her unique design language. With a career spanning over 70 years, she was a central figure in Swedish and international ceramics. Lisa Larson managed to combine artistic quality with popular appeal, making her creations timeless and continuously sought after.
Lisa Larson
We handle all our sales via fleasy.eu. Complete your purchase directly on the platform.
Lisa Larson – From Childhood to Ceramic Icon
Lisa Larson was born in 1931 in Härlunda, Småland, where she early displayed an artistic talent. Inspired by her father’s passion for art and craftsmanship, she began sculpting in wood and drawing her own patterns at a young age. Demonstrating her talent, she was accepted into the University of Design and Crafts in Gothenburg, where she studied ceramics.
Her big breakthrough came when the legendary designer Stig Lindberg discovered her work and offered her a position at the Gustavsberg porcelain factory. What started as a trial employment turned into a 26-year career at the company, where she created some of her most famous series and became one of Sweden’s most prominent ceramicists.
Lisa Larson’s Most Iconic Works
During her time at Gustavsberg, Lisa Larson created several of her most famous series, many of which are still highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts.
- Lilla Zoo (1955) – Her first major success, a series of charming animal figures that became incredibly popular.
- ABC Girls (1958) – A humorous series of female figures, each with her own personality and characteristic clothing style.
- Africa (1964) – A series of beautiful, stylized figures inspired by African culture.
- Children of the World (1974–75) – A series of children in traditional clothing from different countries, created to support UNICEF.
- Lions and Cats – Perhaps her most iconic creations, with their soft shapes and charming expressions.
These works combined modern design with a playful, folk-inspired style, making Lisa Larson a favorite among many.
Lisa Larson’s Unique Style and Inspiration
Lisa Larson’s design language was playful and warm, with soft, rounded shapes and humorous elements. She was inspired by Swedish folk art, fairy tales, and the nature around her. Her figures often had a minimalist expression but at the same time a strong personality and liveliness. She worked a lot with textures and surfaces, giving her figures a unique tactile quality.
Lisa Larson After Gustavsberg – A Continued Brilliant Career
After leaving Gustavsberg in 1980, Lisa Larson continued as a freelance designer. She collaborated with several major companies, including Rosenthal, Höganäs, Kooperativa Förbundet, Duka, and Åhléns. Her work was no longer limited to ceramics but extended to glass, textiles, and metal.
Lisa Larson’s Legacy and Continued Popularity
Lisa Larson became an icon in Swedish design, and her works are still highly sought after in the antique market and interior design world. Her figures have a timeless charm and a humanistic warmth that make them unique. They are represented in several museum collections, including the National Museum in Stockholm and the Röhsska Museum in Gothenburg.
On March 11, 2024, Lisa Larson passed away at the age of 92, but her art lives on. Her figures and design classics have secured a place in Swedish design history and will continue to bring joy to homes around the world.