paradise pottery

Paradis (yes, as in paradise) is the name of a Swedish pottery company, run by a couple with the name... Paradis. They make ceramic pieces (an now also glass) in most every colour of the rainbow including the more serene, pale end of the colour scale. Most pieces - both useful and the more eye candy type - seem to be made in inviting, friendly shapes. And with an overall feeling of inspiration from nature.

Myself , or my cupboards, really don't need anymore pottery or dishes, so I rarely glance at these things anymore. But if I was to get something colourful and sweet and of Swedish design for someone special I would certainly have a look at ceramics from Paradis.

Because I do treasure my four items from Paradis, they've been with me for many, many years - two hanging flower pots (they hang in the kitchen window) with sheep, the jug in the same sheep series and one of their famous candle balls (for tea lights).

The prices range from reasonable to high depending on design and retailer. The not always reasonable prices might have something to do with the fact that the company also is purveyor to the court.

Their only-in-Swedish website does unfortunately leave a lot to be desired, the more useful information is meager, but you can at least have a look at some of their work. And if you fancy an outing this summer I think their factory shop (possibly with a café) on the island of Öland is rather lovely. It's been close to 20 years since I visited the place, but if the photos at the website are anything to go by not a lot has changed. In this case that being a good thing.