Rug ‘Seashells’ designed by Barbro Nilsson for MMF AB
Sweden, 1943
Drawing inspiration from the ocean, Snäckorna (Seashells) has strands of sea shells repeatedly strewn over a surface of varying blues. One Snäckorna is in the permanent collection of Nationalmuesum, Stockholm.
Barbro Nilsson introduced the tapestry technique to the studio when she became artistic director in 1942. Snäckorna (Seashells) was the first design to be executed in this manner, and has since become one of Nilsson's true classics. The tapestry technique is a form of hand-weaving done on a loom, where coloured weft threads are interwoven into tightly stretched warp threads to create intricate patterns or images. The weft threads are discontinuous, allowing the weaver to work in small sections and build up detailed, vibrant designs directly into the fabric. The rug features a rich palette dominated by deep blue, accented with burgundy, cream, mustard yellow, and muted earthy tones. The design includes a central zigzag motif flanked by diamond-like shapes and smaller geometric patterns that resemble scattered seashells or marine treasures.
Barbro Nilsson was educated in weaving and dyeing and went on to become the head of textile at Konstfack, as well as executing several monumental tapestries in collaboration with contemporary artists. In 1942, Nilsson was chosen to manage and develop the Märta Måås-Fjetterström studio after the founder’s passing the year before. With absolute certainty she transformed the ocean and the sky into mastered forms in muted colours.
Signed.
L: 270 cm / 8' 10 1/2''
W: 196 cm / 6' 5''
Price: on application
