In the spotlight: Arabia's Paratiisi and Sunnuntai tableware
Arabia's Paratiisi tableware range delights both in the home and summer cottage – why not even on a picnic amongst greenery.
TITLED PRINCE OF CERAMICS, Birger Kaipiainen has contributed to cosy homes in Finland and beyond with a wealth of beauty and creativity. Designed half a century ago, Paratiisi and Sunnuntai tableware express the award-winning ceramic artist's essence, complete with rich visual mastery and an affinity for all things nature.
Adorned with a rich design of fruit, violets and blackcurrants, the Paratiisi series also includes a tureen, complete with a lid, and a handsome pitcher.
Like a blooming vision from paradise, Birger Kaipiainen's beloved classics are just the ticket for not only everyday meals but also festive occasions.
Adorned with fruit, violets and blackcurrants, Paratiisi (Paradise) is an experience for several senses, as the abundant set of flora entices one to touch, smell and taste its sumptuous pattern. Designed in 1969, the nature-inspired theme drew inspiration from the earlier relief Orvokkimeri (Sea of Violets), created for Expo 67 held in Montreal. While the series originally included oval-shaped plates, it reached its current form following a pause in production during 1974–1988.
Originating in 1971, the delightful flower motif of the Sunnuntai series is a real treat when combined with other tableware collections.
Shimmering in a jolly yellow tone that brings up childhood memories for many Finns, the Sunnuntai tableware ensures smiles, especially in combination with seasonal delicacies.
The Sunnuntai series, Finnish for Sunday, is another iconic creation by Kaipiainen, who worked at the Arabia art department for over 50 years. The joyful floral pattern, launched in 1971, brings a welcome dose of positivity to special occasions and everyday meals alike. Pieces from the Sunnuntai and Paratiisi tableware series are also easy to combine for a cheerful table setting.
Bring the Nordic seasons to your table setting – the black-and-white Paratiisi range is reminiscent of wintery Finnish landscapes.
Whereas Sunnuntai tableware glows in a summery yellow hue, the Paratiisi series delights in three colour variations – fans of Birger Kaipiainen's creative genius can opt for a yellow-blue, black-and-white, or purple edition. The black-and-white version is said to represent Finnish nature in wintertime, and the blue-white variant exudes the feel of Nordic summer. The most recent addition, purple, was introduced to the Paratiisi tableware collection in 2012.
Who: Birger Kaipiainen (1915–1988)
Enrolled to study scenography at the Ateneum's Central School for Applied Arts, but graduated as a ceramicist and decorative artist in 1937.
Mostly built his career at the Arabia art department in Finland, in addition to years spent working in Italy for Richard Ginori and in Sweden for Rörstrand.
In addition to utility articles, Kaipiainen's oeuvre includes several unique pieces, including reliefs, sculptures as well as decorative wall plates and bowls.
Known for the wallpaper collection designed for Pihlgren & Ritola, among other things.
Received the Grand Prix at the Milano triennial in 1960 and the Montreal Expo 67.
See also:
• All designs by Birger Kaipiainen >
• All products by Arabia >
Text: Eero Nurmi Images: Arabia
Published on 11 Aug, 2021
