Axel Salto (1889-1961)
The most important designer of ceramic art in Denmark was Axel Salto. He achieved a powerful expressiveness by exploiting form and surface. Salto interpreted motifs from the plant world and created pieces with surface structures that rippled with dynamic energy and dramatic lines.
Axel Salto worked in three main styles; budding, sprouting and living stone. He never abandoned his experiment with unusually rich glazes and evocative organic forms. Salto used Chinese and classic glazes such as the “solfatara” and “sung”, to clothe his organic creations.
For most of his career, Salto worked at Royal Copenhagen. This legendary manufacturer produced Salto’s designs from the 1930’s until after his death.
Salto’s artistic skills are also shown in graphic designs – he did illustrations for books, jewellery and textiles. Axel Salto won numerous awards throughout the years including the Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale 1951.
