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Heinrich Fuchs Hutschenreuther "ARCHAIS" Vase Duo Model 5120 Bisque Porcelain
€799Bid from €599
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 28 sales
Product description
Heinrich Fuchs for Lorenz Hutschenreuther – "ARCHAIS" Vase Duo, Model 5120 | Bisque Porcelain, Germany, 1965–1970
An exceptional pair of sculptural bisque porcelain vases from the celebrated ARCHAIS series, designed by Heinrich Fuchs for Lorenz Hutschenreuther during the pivotal years between 1965 and 1970. Comprising the monumental Model 5120 (28 cm) and its elegantly scaled companion Model 5120/21 (approximately 21–22 cm), the duo represents one of the most iconic expressions of postwar German porcelain design.
Conceived as complementary forms rather than simple size variations, the two vases create a refined architectural dialogue through proportion, rhythm, and light. Together they illustrate Heinrich Fuchs's vision of porcelain as sculptural form rather than decorative object.
Design & Concept
The ARCHAIS series stands among Heinrich Fuchs's most significant contributions to twentieth-century design, merging the optical rhythm of Op Art with references to archaic sculpture, geological formations, and architectural relief.
Each vase is articulated by a precisely modelled surface of repeating geometric facets that catch and diffuse light across the matte bisque porcelain. The relief appears to shift constantly as the viewing angle changes, creating subtle shadows that emphasize depth, movement, and tactile richness.
Displayed together, the two scales reinforce one another beautifully. The larger vase provides a commanding architectural presence, while the smaller example introduces intimacy and balance, allowing the sculptural language of the series to unfold as a carefully composed ensemble.
Although sharing the same formal vocabulary, the differing proportions give each vase its own character, creating a harmonious composition that is far more compelling than either piece displayed individually.
Details
Designer: Heinrich Fuchs
Manufacturer: Lorenz Hutschenreuther, Selb, Bavaria, Germany
Series: ARCHAIS
Models: 5120 (28 cm) & 5120/21 (approximately 21–22 cm)
Material: Bisque porcelain (unglazed, matte finish)
Colour: White
Design period: 1965–1970
The larger model is commonly found marked simply 5120, but depending on the production period may also bear the factory designation 5120/27 or 5120/28. The accompanying smaller version is typically marked 5120/21.
Both vases bear the Hutschenreuther Germany factory mark and Heinrich Fuchs signature.
Dimensions
Large Vase (Model 5120)
Height: 28 cm
Diameter: approx. 10.5 cm
Small Vase (Model 5120/21)
Height: approx. 21–22 cm
Diameter: proportionally scaled
Condition
Both vases are in excellent vintage condition with minimal traces of age. No chips, cracks, or restorations observed. The crisp geometric relief remains exceptionally well preserved on both pieces.
Designer Context
Heinrich Fuchs (1922–1986) was one of the leading innovators of postwar German porcelain design. During his collaboration with Hutschenreuther in the 1960s and 1970s, he developed a radically modern vocabulary that moved beyond traditional ornament toward abstraction, structure, and optical perception.
His most celebrated series—including ARCHAIS and Calabash—redefined porcelain as a sculptural and architectural medium, establishing him as one of the foremost designers of twentieth-century European ceramics.
Design Context
The ARCHAIS series reflects the broader evolution of European design during the 1960s, when industrial production increasingly embraced ideas drawn from Minimalism, Constructivism, and Op Art. Through disciplined repetition and subtle modulation of relief, Fuchs created objects that explore light, shadow, and perception with remarkable sophistication.
The dialogue between the two sizes further emphasizes these qualities, demonstrating how scale alone can transform the visual and spatial experience of the same sculptural form.
Collector's Perspective
This exceptional duo offers:
– The iconic ARCHAIS design in its two most desirable complementary sizes
– Authentic Models 5120 and 5120/21
– Outstanding examples of Heinrich Fuchs's sculptural porcelain
– Museum-quality bisque porcelain with beautifully preserved relief
– A rare opportunity to acquire a matched architectural pair
Summary
This remarkable duo embodies:
– Heinrich Fuchs's innovative sculptural vision
– The exceptional craftsmanship of Lorenz Hutschenreuther
– The enduring dialogue between geometry, texture, scale, and light
Displayed together, these vases become more than functional vessels—they form a carefully balanced sculptural composition whose quiet architectural presence remains as compelling today as when first conceived over half a century ago.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Please explore our profile for more vintage porcelain, Rosenthal, Hutschenreuther, and mid-century design objects.
International buyers are welcome. Import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer's responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minor traces of age and handling; any significant flaws will always be clearly described and illustrated.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsWhiteMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2Height28 cmWidth10 cmDepth10 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 28 sales