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Axel Salto

Axel Salto (1889-1961) was one of the most important Scandinavian artists working in ceramics in the 20th century. His style was innovative and unique; standing apart from the refined ceramics of Chinese influence favored by most Scandinavian designers of the modernist period.

Salto graduated from the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in 1913. He then worked for many years as a painter and illustrator, including studies in France. He joined Bing & Grondahl as a ceramics designer in 1922, followed by a short period at Saxbo from 1931 to 1932. His long association with Royal Copenhagen began in 1933 and continued for the remainder of his career.

Axel Salto was most noted for his heavy, sculptural vessels inspired by forms taken from nature. The glazes were rich and thickly applied. Famous styles included the "budding", "sprouting" and "fluted" pieces.