Lisa Johansson-Pape, Press glass plate, Karhula 1930s

Overview

Rare Finnish pressed glass serving dish designed by Lisa Johansson-Pape for Karhula, part of the early Modernist Press series. Diameter 14.5 cm. Produced in the early 1930s, following Johansson-Pape’s award-winning entry (3rd prize) in the Karhula glass competition of 1932. Excellent vintage condition, no visible signs of use.

Design & Form

The dish is built around concentric, sharply serrated rings that radiate from the central foot. The stepped geometry creates a clear rhythm and strong graphic presence, enhanced by precise light refraction through the pressed glass. The profile is low and architectural, with a raised central stem that stabilizes the form while visually separating base and bowl.

Material & Color

Pressed clear glass with high transparency. The surface shows crisp edges and clean transitions between planes. Light interaction produces shifting highlights along the toothed rings, emphasizing depth and symmetry without added decoration.

Rarity

An uncommon example from an early Modernist production run.

Designer Context

Lisa Johansson-Pape was among the first women in Finland to work professionally in product and industrial design. Her early work in pressed glass is notable for translating modernist ideas into serial production while retaining visual intensity and sculptural clarity.

Specifications

• Designer: Lisa Johansson-Pape

• Manufacturer: Karhula, Finland

• Series: Early Modernist Press series

• Year: early 1930s

• Diameter: 14.5 cm

• Material: pressed clear glass

• Condition: excellent vintage condition, no visible wear