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
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
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
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
Beyond pottery, Olsen produced numerous studio drawings, watercolors, and designs for embroidery.
Legacy
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]