From Tradition to Modernity: 200 Years of Finnish Rya rugs
Rya rugs have been crafted since the Viking Age, initially serving as covers for the wealthy and royalty. During the 19th century, as Finland experienced a national awakening and industrialization, concerns arose about the potential loss of traditional crafts. In response, the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts began reviving this heritage in the late 1800s by collecting old rya designs and creating a new national style.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the purpose of rya rugs shifted. Once used as covers, they became interior design elements, finding their place on walls and floors. International design movements such as Classicism, Art Deco, and Functionalism strongly influenced rya design. Straight lines and angular compositions suited the rya technique particularly well, as seen in works by Laila Karttunen and Greta Skogster-Lehtinen.
By the 1950s, rya rugs began to resemble paintings, often featuring light color palettes. In the 1960s and 1970s, their appearance grew bolder and more modern. Textile artists like Ritva Puotila and Terttu Tomero created works characterized by vibrant colors and subtle gradients. These dynamic designs and vivid tones reflected the interior design trends of the time.
During the 1980s and 1990s, rya rugs became smaller in size and gained three-dimensional qualities. Experiments with materials, varying pile heights, and partial pile use introduced new possibilities. This evolution is evident in works by Riitta-Maija Oksanen and Jukka Vesterinen, where artistic expression blended with modern design language.
In the 2020s, textile artist Eetu Kivinen has brought a fresh perspective to rya art. His works combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, emphasizing clarity, linearity, and harmonious balance. Kivinen’s creations continue the long legacy of the rya while integrating it into contemporary art and interior design.
This themed auction offers a 200-year overview of Finnish rya art – welcome to discover your favorites!
