Birger Kaipiainen (1915-1988) was the master of decorative ceramics at the Arabia factory in Finland. He was well known for his ornamental dishes that were rich, colourful and with themes from the fantasy world and fairytales, which actually fought against the idealism of the minimalistic movements in 1950s.
Kaipiainen introduced ceramic beads to his art in the 60s' and the surface of the object became more important for Kaipianen´s art.
This beautiful unique ceramic plate decorated with his favorite blue pansies, burgundy plums and apples and blackcurrants is a good example of the artists skill to use irridescent glaze, in this case on the surface of the plate. The black glaze continues on the back of the plate.
Kaipiainen dishes are internationally sought after collector´s items, especially the unique one´s that are not commercially manufactured, for each by definition is a completely unique piece of art. The price for these dishes has also steadily increased over the years, and no wonder at all, since there aren´t enough of them for all want to be Kaipiainen collector´s.
Even if you are not a collector and just appreciate fine art, here is a jem that will illuminate any suurounding it is featured in.
This dish is signed Birger Kaipiainen Arabia. There is a wall mounting wire attached to the dish.
