D90: The contemporary reading of tradition

Abstract

The Dalecarlian horse (Swedish: Dalahäst) is a traditional carved and painted wooden statuette from the Swedish province of Dalarna. Today it has become a symbol of Dalarna, as well as of Sweden in general.

Fredrik Swärd's D90 is a magnificent combination of tradition and modernity. Between national identity and design. It encompasses three of what I consider to be the essential characteristics of modern Swedish design: inspiration from nature, simplicity and high quality materials. The choice of cast iron for its industrial manufacture gives it strength and echoes the Scandinavian design ideals of sobriety, simple shapes, smooth textures and solid volumes.