Jan and Berit Johansson – A Life with Glass

With bright colors and clear glass, Berit and Jan Johansson created artworks full of contrasts. Jan often explored subtly clear glass, while Berit preferred a more vibrant color palette. Despite significant differences in their artistic styles, they delved into each other's typical aesthetics. Examples of this are visible in their long, separate collaborations with Orrefors, where Berit designed series like "Haga" and "Nimbus" in transparent glass, while Jan introduced more color in "Mayflower."

Their careers spanned decades, both nationally and internationally. In addition to Berit's significant period at Orrefors between 1969 and 1983, she spread her works from Sweden to the rest of the world. Berit worked in various studio glassworks such as Pukeberg and Salviati in Venice, where she quickly established herself as a prominent figure in playful glass art.

Similarly, Jan's association with Orrefors began in 1969 and extended over almost 30 years of collaboration. He has been recognized as a master of crystal for his works showing aesthetic skill and a profound interest in technical aspects. Jan's glass art is often designed with polished details that guide light in unexpected ways, yet there's an underlying playfulness. Today, Berit and Jan are represented in some of the world's most prominent museums.

This themed auction, part of the estate of Berit and Jan Johansson, presents a deeper insight into their diversity and skill as glass designers. Through their works, we get to experience the rich production of two of Sweden's foremost glass designers and their place in art history.