Arabia Ruija Bowl 0,3 l, Vintage

Ruija (Finnmark, an area in Norwegian Lappland) features a pattern of hand-painted moss green leaves with reddish-brown plums and stripes on a background of subtle powdery peach colour. The combination is unusual and rather refined, yet with a naturally cosy atmosphere and a simple gracefulness. The pattern designed by Raija Uosikkinen has a beautiful rustic and autumnal feel suggestive of an orchard full of fruits ripe for harvest.

The name is suggestive the ancient traditions of Finnish and Lappish peoples. It refers to the most northern area of Lappland, directly above Finland, were some people still speak an ancient version of Finnish. A land of known for its rough beautiful autumn colours, pale pink mountains, and the artesanal skill of the Sami people.

The highlight of this design is the artful and calligraphic brush-strokes, which have required extreme skill. Arabia was indeed much admired for the talent of its ceramic painters. The hand-painted nature of the pattern makes each dish excitingly unique and the colours shift in tone from pale watercolour washes to deep and luxurious tones. This change in colours give the simple design an exciting illusion of three-dimensionality and depth.

The colour of the glazing shifts in tone from paler to more deep tones. This change in colours gives the design a rustic feel.

A bowl for small gratins, salads or side dishes. Collect a set of these ovenproof bowls with various decorations for your own table setting. The edge of the bowl makes handling easy. When serving hot food, you can use the matching series of bread plates under the bowls.