Brand: Gefle

Renowned Swedish ceramics and porcelain factory that produced a of mid-century modern porcelain during the 1950-70s. It made both art ceramics and utility items.

Gefle Porcelain (part of Upsala‑Ekeby) was a celebrated Swedish ceramics maker from 1910 to 1979, blending everyday utility with artistic flair.

Origins & Expansion

Founded in Gävle in 1910, Gefle Porslinsfabrik began as a modest pottery plant. In 1936, it merged into the Upsala‑Ekeby group, a major ceramics and tile conglomerate, bringing new resources and access to designers across its sister brands.

Art & Utility in Harmony

Gefle produced both dinnerware for daily use and bold, sculptural art pieces. In the 1940s–70s, its catalog showcased striking patterns in vivid blue, earthy brown, and ochre - ideal for functional elegance. The EK and Briljant dinner services are memorable examples, regularly seen in collectors’ showcases.

Leading Designers & Series

Arthur Percy, who led Gefle from the 1920s, created distinctive Art Deco patterns like Vinranka and Tibet that are celebrated for their curved forms and gilded accents. Designers like Berit Ternell and Göran Andersson later contributed midcentury lines such as Kosmos, Cocktail and Helianthus, combining sculptural form with artisanal glazes.

Craftsmanship & Collectibility

Gefle marked its pieces with "Gefle" or "UE," signaling quality earthenware from the Upsala‑Ekeby family. The studio often used locally sourced clay and embraced both manual and factory methods. Limited-runs and bold pattern choices have made Gefle pieces increasingly collectible today.

Enduring Legacy

Although production ceased in 1979, Gefle’s wares continue to attract collectors worldwide. Vintage EK plates, Briljant vases, and Art Deco-patterned serveware remain in demand among enthusiasts who appreciate mid-century Scandinavian ceramics for both form and function.