Marie Gudme Leth and the Melon pattern – A tribute to the beauty of nature

Marie Gudme Leth (1895–1997) was a pioneering Danish textile artist who revolutionized textile printing in Scandinavia. Her pattern Melon , created in 1943, is an example of her ability to combine artistic flair with technical innovation.

After studying batik techniques in Java in the 1920s, Leth returned to Denmark with a vision to innovate textile printing. She introduced screen printing on an industrial scale and founded Dansk Kattuntrykkeri in 1935, laying the foundation for a new era in Danish textile design.

Melon represents Leth's transition to a more lush and detailed style during the 1940s. The pattern is characterized by a dense composition of leaves, fruits and flowers, creating a vibrant and artistic whole. This organic design reflects influences from both Scandinavian folk art and modernist movements such as Bauhaus.

Now, over 80 years later, Melon is back in production at Frösö Handtryck. Hand-printed on high-quality linen in our workshop in Jämtland, the pattern offers an opportunity to integrate a piece of design history into your home.

By reintroducing Melon , we honor Marie Gudme Leth's legacy while offering a timeless design that continues to inspire and beautify our homes.

Explore the products in the MARIE GUDME LETH collection here.