Cathinca Olsen
Vilhelmine Cathinca Olsen (born 3 August 1868, Copenhagen – died 13 September 1947, Copenhagen) was a prominent Danish ceramicist, painter, and designer, recognized as a pioneer in Danish stoneware.
Early life and education
[edit]Olsen was born in Copenhagen and was largely self-taught. She began working with Bing & Grøndahl's porcelain factory in 1896, initially producing decorative porcelain pieces under the influence of artists like J. F. Willumsen.[1]
Career and artistic style
[edit]With the factory’s shift to stoneware production under architect Carl Petersen around 1912, Olsen became one of the leading artists in this medium.[1]
She was celebrated for her expressive yet rigid ornamentation. Her work often featured plant motifs and landscapes that combined rhythmic vitality with ornamental structure — influenced by Japonisme and her experiences in Asia.[1]
Olsen evolved from painting under and over glaze to carving designs into unfired clay before glazing, frequently using ochre and black accents.[1]
Travels and recognition
[edit]From 1928 to 1929 she accompanied journalist Ellen Hørup to India, a journey that further enriched her Oriental-inspired designs.[1]
Olsen received a Gold Medal at the 1925 Paris World Exhibition. Her work was displayed in notable exhibitions, including a retrospective of women artists in Copenhagen (1920), the Brooklyn Museum (1927), and a joint show at Bing & Grøndahl in 1940.[1]
Other artistic work
[edit]Beyond pottery, Olsen produced numerous studio drawings, watercolors, and designs for embroidery.
Legacy
[edit]Olsen’s ceramics—especially jars and vases—are held in Danish museums and admired by collectors for their harmonious blend of form, decoration, and cultural inspiration.[1]