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Dorothy Hafner for Rosenthal, “Flash” Vase Duo with Matching Ashtray, Germany, 1980s
€420Bid from €360
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Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 20 sales
Product description
**Dorothy Hafner for Rosenthal, “Flash” Vase Duo with Matching Ashtray, Germany, 1980s**
A dazzling trio of Dorothy Hafner’s iconic designs for **Rosenthal Studio Linie**, this collector’s set comprises **two porcelain vases** and a **matching triangular ashtray**—all adorned in the exuberant *“Flash”* pattern that helped define the visual language of the 1980s.
The vases, standing at **23 cm** and **19 cm**, respectively, present complementary but distinct arrangements of Hafner’s hallmark zigzags, brush strokes, and kaleidoscopic geometries. The **ashtray**, an unusually sculptural piece measuring approximately **17 cm in diameter**, continues the same angular idiom—triangular in shape but softened by the artist’s joyful ornamentation.
**Design Context**
Introduced in 1982, *“Flash”* marked a seminal collaboration between American artist **Dorothy Hafner** and Rosenthal, Germany’s premier porcelain house. The design exploded onto the scene with its bold chromatics, jagged silhouettes, and Pop Art energy—elegantly tempered by Rosenthal’s refined porcelain production. Influenced by the Memphis Group and the Postmodern turn in decorative arts, Hafner’s pieces eschew neutrality in favor of radical joy and performative color.
**Artist Note**
Dorothy Hafner (b. 1952), with a background in sculpture and fine art, translated her vision into tableware that challenged conventions. Her work for Rosenthal—often likened to jazz in ceramic form—was followed by successful collaborations with Tiffany & Co. and a later career in glass art. Her designs reside in major design collections worldwide, including MoMA and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum.
**Specifications**
* **2 Vases:** 23 cm (9 in) and 19 cm (7.5 in) tall
* **1 Ashtray:** Approx. 17 cm across, triangular form
* **Material:** Glazed porcelain with transfer-printed polychrome decoration
* **Marks:** All pieces marked “Rosenthal studio-linie, Germany”
* **Condition:** Excellent vintage condition. Minor signs of age; no chips or cracks.
**Why Collect This Set?**
While individual pieces from the *Flash* series are collectible in their own right, **ensemble groupings** are especially rare. This trio not only illustrates Hafner’s versatility across forms, but also captures the holistic design ethos of the era—where even an ashtray could be a canvas for high art. The geometric congruency between the triangular ashtray and the rectilinear vases offers a sublime rhythm for display.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
**Explore my profile for more retro vases, vintage fashion, and designer goods!**
**Questions are welcome and will be answered promptly.**
**International buyers are welcome!**
*Please contact me in advance for precise delivery costs if you're located outside the EU. Any import duties or taxes are the buyer's responsibility.*
I strive to describe all items as accurately and honestly as possible, including detailed photos of the actual items for sale. However, please be aware that descriptions can be subjective. Vintage or pre-owned items often show signs of wear due to age, and while I make every effort to identify and note any significant flaws, some minor imperfections may be overlooked.
Naturally occurring manufacturer’s defects, slight surface scratching, or wear consistent with normal use may be present.
Any condition beyond typical vintage wear, such as chips, cracks, or other significant defects, will be clearly noted in the description and visible in the photos.
*If you are purchasing multiple items, please contact me before completing your purchase to confirm whether they can be shipped together in the same parcel.*
**Important Notice:** This transaction is between a private seller and a private buyer of secondhand items. **No refunds, returns, or warranties** are accepted or provided, in accordance with German law. By purchasing, you agree to these terms.
**Privacy Notice:** Buyer information will be used solely for the purpose of completing the transaction and arranging shipment.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsMulti ColorMaterialPorcelainNumber of items3BrandRosenthalHeight23 cmWidth99 cmDepth99 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 20 sales