Hej everyone,
Vintage collecting is more than just a hobby – it is a passion for design, history and quality.
Anyone interested in Scandinavian glass and ceramics is immersed in a world of masterful craftsmanship and iconic design. But where do you start? Which pieces are worth buying? And how do you find real treasures?
In this article, I share my best tips for building an impressive vintage collection.
Why Scandinavian glass and ceramics?
The Scandinavian countries have a long tradition in glass and ceramic design. Names like Iittala, Holmegaard, Kosta Boda, and Gustavsberg stand for the highest quality and timeless design. Especially in the mid-century era (c. 1950–1970), Scandinavian pieces were created that continue to inspire today.
Why are they so popular?
Timeless design: Many Scandinavian designs still appear modern decades later.
High quality: Handcrafted glass and ceramics last a lifetime – or longer.
Collector value: Well-preserved pieces from great designers often increase in value.
But before you get started, you should know what's important when collecting.
1.Find your style
A good vintage collection needs direction. Ask yourself:
- Are you interested in certain colors or shapes?
- Do you want to focus on a specific era, such as the 1950s or 1970s?
- Are there any designers that particularly fascinate you?
Popular Scandinavian glass and ceramic designers
- Tapio Wirkkala (Iittala, Finland): Organic forms, often inspired by nature.
- Bertil Vallien (Kosta Boda, Sweden): Sculptural glass art with a mystical touch.
- Stig Lindberg (Gustavsberg, Sweden): Playful patterns and elegant ceramics.
- Per Lütken (Holmegaard, Denmark): Simple, elegant glass designs with Scandinavian clarity.
2. Where can I find the best pieces?
The beauty of collecting is the treasure hunt. Here are some of the best places to discover Scandinavian vintage design:
Flea markets & antique fairs
Especially in Scandinavia, there are numerous markets with genuine vintage goods in the summer. In Germany, a visit to design markets or specialized antique fairs is worthwhile.
Online platforms and online shops
Etsy: Perfect for targeted searches for specific pieces.
Secondhand shops & auction houses
Cities like Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki are home to many vintage shops featuring Scandinavian design. Auction houses like Bukowskis or Lauritz.com often offer high-quality collectibles.
3. How do I recognize real quality?
Especially with glass and ceramics, it is important to pay attention to certain quality features:
- Glass: Does the piece have a maker's mark or signature? Originals from Kosta Boda or Iittala are often engraved or stamped.
- Ceramics: Look for embossing or stickers with the manufacturer's name (e.g., "Gustavsberg Sweden").
- Condition: Minor signs of wear are okay, but cracks or chips can reduce the value.
Tip: If you are unsure, ask in collector communities or compare the piece with archive images of well-known designs.
4. How do I properly store my collection?
To ensure your treasures last for a long time, you should store and care for them properly:
- Glass: Best stored in a display case to avoid dust and breakage.
- Ceramic: Do not stack to prevent hairline cracks.
- Cleaning: Clean the glass with warm water and mild detergent, never put it in the dishwasher!
Tip: I remove limescale stains in glass vases with denture cleaning tablets, which I leave in the vessels for 24 hours.
5. Which pieces are worth investing in?
While collecting should first and foremost be a passion, there are some Scandinavian designer pieces that retain their value particularly well or even increase in value.
Here are some examples:
- Tapio Wirkkala’s “Kantarelli” vase (Iittala) – A classic of Finnish design.
- Stig Lindberg’s “Berså” series (Gustavsberg) – The green leaf pattern collection is a must-have for collectors.
- Bertil Vallien's glass heads (Kosta Boda) – sculptural glass art with collector value.
- Holmegaard “Carnaby” vases – colorful mid-century classics that are becoming increasingly popular.
6. How do I keep my collection exciting?
A collection grows over time. Here are some tips to keep the excitement going:
- Learn the stories behind the pieces. Who designed them? Why are they special?
- Connect with other collectors. There's plenty of opportunity for discussion in Facebook groups and forums.
- Showcase your collection. Whether in a display case or as decoration – vintage design deserves to be seen!
Conclusion: Your path to the perfect vintage collection
Building a collection of Scandinavian glass and ceramics is a journey of discovery. With patience, knowledge, and the right eye, you can build a collection that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story.
Whether you choose classics or hidden gems, the key is to collect what inspires you.
Have fun on your vintage treasure hunt!