Above: Some of the ‘Lotus’ series enamelware designed by Grete Prytz Kittelsen for Cathrineholm of Norway. Photo: ampersandvintagemodern.wordpress.com
Perhaps one of the most recognizable pieces of MCM design is the ‘Lotus’ series enamelware produced by Cathrineholm of Norway from the 1950’s through to the 1970’s. Designed by enamel artist and goldsmith Grete Prytz Kittelsen the bright and cheerful pieces were a staple in homes across Europe and America.
Cover image for Cathrineholm’s ‘Lotus’ enamelware designed by Grete Pritz Kittelsen
A brochure for Cathrineholm’s ‘Lotus’ enamelware designed by Grete Prytz Kittelsen
The ‘Lotus’ graphic which adorns Kittelsen’s pieces was designed Arne Clausen, an in-house designer at Cathrineholm.
Catherineholm's Lotus enamelware. Click on image for full view.
Inspired by Native American art Kittelsen combined simple, plain colors with elemental shapes with the result being colorful, durable, and practical pieces. Interestingly the ‘Lotus’ graphic was not designed by Kittelsen but rather by Arne Clausen, an in-house designer at Cathrineholm, and applied to kittelsen’s pieces. It was reported that she was never fond of the design. At any rate they are wonderful works and an affordable, popular collectible today.
Grete Pritz Kittelsen in her studio in the 1960’s
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