Bowl, Michael Schilkin, Arabia

Michael Schilkin (1900–1962). A Russian-born sculptor and ceramic artist who became one of the most distinctive figures of Arabia’s Art Department, Michael Schilkin brought a sculptural, expressive approach to Finnish ceramics. He arrived in Finland at the age of twenty-one and studied at the Central School of Applied Arts in Helsinki in the mid-1920s, while supporting himself through various occupations. His ceramic sculptures attracted the attention of Arabia’s artistic director Kurt Ekholm, and Schilkin began working at Arabia in the mid-1930s, remaining there until his death. At Arabia, Schilkin became particularly known for his animal sculptures, capturing their movement, characteristic poses and individual nature with remarkable sensitivity. He experimented boldly with glazes, colours and materials, working in chamotte stoneware as well as other ceramic techniques. His artistic language evolved from expressive and stylised forms towards greater naturalism, while later works incorporated more simplified and geometric influences. Alongside his intimate sculptures, he created monumental ceramic reliefs for architecture, including major works for the former Helsinki School of Economics and Arabia's own buildings. Schilkin represented Arabia at the 1937 Paris World's Fair, where he was awarded a Gold Medal for his work, marking an important international recognition of both his own art and Arabia's Art Department. He later received an Honorary Diploma at the Milan Triennale in 1951, a Silver Medal in 1954 and the Pro Finlandia Medal in 1958. Today, his works are represented in major Finnish and Nordic collections, and his animal sculptures remain particularly sought after by collectors for their expressive character, distinctive glazing and unmistakable sculptural presence. 

(Photo source: Arabia)