Gustavsberg Argenta

The Gustavsberg Argenta line was created by Wilhelm Kåge in 1930. Kåge was the artistic director for the Swedish Gustavsberg pottery factory and designed Argenta to represent Sweden at international design exhibitions. He intended the line to showcase a modern, distinctly Swedish interpretation of Art Deco.

Argenta is unique because it features heavy, dark stoneware bodies inlaid with intricate silver overlay designs. The silver was applied in liquid form and fired into the glaze, depicting stylized Art Deco motifs like fish, mermaids, and sweeping botanical patterns. The striking contrast between the dark green clay and the metallic silver is instantly recognizable.

The silver overlay on Argenta pieces is real silver, so it can tarnish over time, but it does not easily rub off because it is fused to the ceramic glaze during firing. Collectors often clean the silver elements with standard silver polish to restore their original shine. Proper care ensures the bright metallic Art Deco designs remain vibrant.

The Argenta line included a wide variety of decorative objects, ranging from large floor vases and wall masks to smaller bowls, ashtrays, and pitchers. The designs were heavily varied, ensuring each piece felt distinct despite the uniform dark green and silver aesthetic. The larger vases featuring elaborate mermaid or fish motifs are highly sought after today.