Josef Ekberg

Josef Ekberg (1877-1945) was a Swedish ceramicist and designer who worked at the Gustavsberg porcelain factory from 1889 until his death. He is known for having developed the sgrafitto technique together with Gunnar Wennerberg, a method where patterns are carved into glazed ceramics to create contrasting decorations. The technique became an important part of Gustavsberg's production and was presented at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1900. Ekberg became artistic director of the factory in 1908 and remained in this role until 1917, when he was succeeded by Wilhelm Kåge. During his time at Gustavsberg, he also created lustre-decorated works and worked in styles such as Art Nouveau and Swedish Grace. His works, often inspired by nature, are characterized by flowers, meandering plants and soft, organic forms. Josef Ekberg's works are represented in the Nationalmuseum and the Hallwylska Museum in Stockholm