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Hans-Peter Mader Sculptural Raku Lidded Studio Vase Germany, 1991 Studiokeramik
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Hans-Peter Mader – Raku Lidded Studio Vase
Germany, 1991
A sculptural raku-fired studio ceramic by German ceramic artist Hans-Peter Mader, created in 1991. Combining architectural geometry with the unpredictability of raku firing, this vessel stands as a compelling example of late 20th-century German studiokeramik, where functional forms increasingly approached the language of sculpture and constructed objects.
Design & Form
The vase is built around a softly conical body tapering downward toward a narrow foot, crowned by an inset rectangular lid from which rises a short cylindrical neck. The composition evokes architectural massing, ceremonial vessels, or postmodern object design, balancing strict geometry with the tactile irregularities characteristic of raku ceramics.
Its surface is divided through finely incised geometric linework and angular inlays accented with white and cobalt blue glazed details. These sharp linear interventions contrast with the smoky, atmospheric matte body, whose earthy gradients of grey, charcoal, ochre, and burnt orange were produced through the raku firing process.
The lid, finished in crackled white glaze, introduces an additional material and visual tension — a luminous counterpoint to the darker body beneath. The craquelure surface captures the unpredictability and fragility central to raku aesthetics, while the geometric structure retains a distinctly European modernist discipline.
About the Artist
Hans-Peter Mader (born 1951 in Nordhausen, Germany) has worked as an independent ceramic artist and sculptor since 1982. His work belongs to the broader German studio ceramics movement that merged sculptural experimentation, craft traditions, and postmodern formal language during the late 20th century.
This piece is signed and dated “PM 91” and additionally incised “RAKU,” confirming both authorship and technique.
Details
Artist: Hans-Peter Mader
Country: Germany
Year: 1991
Material: Stoneware / studio ceramic
Technique: Raku firing
Color: Grey, beige, burnt orange, white, and blue
Finish: Matte with partial glaze and craquelure effects
Dimensions
Height: 18 cm
Width: 14.5 cm
Depth: 14.5 cm
Condition
Vintage condition consistent with age and the fragile nature of raku ceramics. Several small chips to the shoulder area and one restored corner on the lid, as documented in the photographs. Despite these imperfections, the piece retains strong sculptural presence and display quality.
Collector’s Note
This work reflects a distinctly European interpretation of raku ceramics: less focused on Japanese tradition alone and more engaged with architectural form, geometric abstraction, and postmodern studio object culture. The interplay between smoky matte surfaces, crackled glaze, and precise incised decoration gives the vessel a uniquely constructed, almost ceremonial character.
An excellent acquisition for collectors of German studiokeramik, postmodern ceramics, or sculptural vessel forms from the late 20th century.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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International buyers: 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.
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Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsGrey, Taupe, Multi ColorMaterialCeramicNumber of items1Height18 cmWidth14 cmDepth14 cmSigns of usageChipped
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales