A Large Swedish Neoclassical Blyberg Porphyry Vase, First Quarter 19th Century

Swedish porphyry was first discovered in the valley of Älvdalen (Elfdal) in Central Sweden in 1731 but was not commercially exploited until after 1788 by Eric Hagström under the direction of Nils Adam Bielke. Most of the designs were based on the work of neoclassical architect Carl Fredrik Sundvall (1754-1831), which continued to be used throughout most of the nineteenth century. Despite official support from the State the new manufactory experienced commercial difficulties, and in 1818 the works were acquired by the new king Charles XIV, born Jean Bernadotte (1763-1844), who extensively commissioned porphyry objects to distribute as diplomatic gifts.

The form of this unusually large-scale vase appears as no. XXVI in an 1820 illustrated factory price list Formes, contours et coupes de différans objets en porphyres qui se fabriquent à Elfdalen en Suède.