Have it delivered hassle-freeBuyer protectionAll Designer items curated by WhoppahDownload the Whoppah App – get alerts & sell with ease.
Glam Chic Vintage Rare Alain Le Foll × Rosenthal "Chiffon" Porcelain Vase Duo
€499Bid from €399
Buy with confidence
Shop & pay safely with our Buyer ProtectionDesigner items curated by WhoppahWe only pay the seller once you have safely received the itemTrusted payment methods
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 24 sales
Product description
Rosenthal Studio-Line
“Chiffon” Porcelain Vase Duo
Design by Tapio Wirkkala & Alain Le Foll
Rosenthal AG, Germany
circa 1980–1982
Porcelain with graphic “Chiffon” décor
Glossy finish
A striking Rosenthal Studio-Line duo from the celebrated “Chiffon” series, combining the sculptural porcelain forms of Finnish master designer Tapio Wirkkala with the distinctive graphic decoration created by French illustrator Alain Le Foll. Produced around 1980–1982, the series reflects Rosenthal’s remarkable program of artist collaborations during the late twentieth century, when leading designers and visual artists were invited to reinterpret porcelain as a contemporary artistic medium.
Both vases share the distinctive faceted cylindrical body developed by Wirkkala. The form is gently folded rather than perfectly round, creating vertical planes that subtly catch the light and give the object an architectural presence. The rim follows this softly irregular geometry, producing an organic silhouette that feels both modern and sculptural.
The decoration—known as “Chiffon”—is composed of extremely fine horizontal lines that gradually intensify toward the base of the vessels. The effect resembles flowing fabric, topographic strata, or wind-shaped landscapes. The pattern wraps around the faceted surfaces with remarkable precision, creating a visual rhythm that changes as the object is viewed from different angles. The graphic concept reflects Alain Le Foll’s background as an illustrator, transforming the porcelain surface into a delicate field of line and movement.
Together the two vases create a balanced architectural pair: one compact and slightly wider, the other taller and more elongated. Their shared surface language allows them to function as a cohesive ensemble while maintaining individual sculptural character.
Dimensions
Smaller vase: height 18 cm, width 11 cm, depth 5 cm
Larger vase (model 2786/20): height 21 cm, width 14 cm, depth 7 cm
Condition
Very good vintage condition with minimal signs of age. No chips, cracks, or restorations observed. Decoration remains crisp and well preserved.
Design context
Tapio Wirkkala (1915–1985) was one of the most influential Scandinavian designers of the twentieth century. Known for his work in glass, wood, metal, and porcelain, his designs often combine strict geometry with organic inspiration drawn from nature. His collaboration with Rosenthal produced some of the most distinctive sculptural porcelain forms of the Studio-Line era.
Alain Le Foll (1934–1981), a French illustrator and designer associated with the surrealist tradition, contributed richly imaginative graphic patterns to several Rosenthal objects. His “Chiffon” décor translates the idea of light textile movement into a refined linear composition that enhances rather than overwhelms the sculptural form.
The result of this collaboration is a particularly elegant example of Rosenthal’s late-modern design philosophy: a dialogue between artist, designer, and industrial craftsmanship.
Collector’s perspective
This duo represents a refined intersection of Scandinavian form and French graphic sensibility within Rosenthal’s Studio-Line program. Pieces from the “Chiffon” series are appreciated by collectors for their subtle decoration, architectural silhouettes, and their place within Rosenthal’s influential designer collaborations of the late twentieth century.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Please explore our profile for more vintage vases and Studio-Line pieces.
International buyers welcome – import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minimal traces of age; any significant flaws will be clearly mentioned.
Private sale under law: no returns, refunds, or warranties.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsGold, White, Multi ColorMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2BrandRosenthalHeight21 cmWidth14 cmDepth7 cm
Discover more
Seller information
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 24 sales