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Horst Kerstan Studio Ceramic Vase – Kerstan Keramik Kandern, Germany, 1979
€360Bid from €290
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Horst Kerstan Studio Ceramic Vase – Kerstan Keramik Kandern, Germany, 1979
An elegant example of late twentieth-century German studio ceramics by Horst Kerstan, this signed vase from 1979 demonstrates the artist's refined approach to form, glaze, and material expression. Produced at Kerstan Keramik in Kandern, the piece reflects the strong influence of East Asian ceramic traditions while remaining firmly rooted in the German studio pottery movement of the post-war period.
The vase is distinguished by its softly bamboo-inspired silhouette, featuring a gently waisted cylindrical body that expands subtly towards the rim and base. The restrained form is enlivened by delicate undulations along the lower edge, introducing a subtle sculptural rhythm without disturbing its calm, balanced presence.
Particularly captivating is the glaze treatment. A glossy, celadon-like blue-green glaze cascades across the surface in soft transitions, revealing an olive-green underlayer beneath. Areas of controlled pooling and atmospheric variation create an impression of flowing watercolour washes, while darker accents introduce depth and visual complexity. The combination of the grey stoneware body with the nuanced overglaze demonstrates Kerstan's mastery of sophisticated glaze chemistry and his sensitivity to natural colour harmonies.
Born in Frankfurt am Main in 1941, Horst Kerstan became one of Germany's most respected ceramic artists. After training with his father Richard Kerstan, he established Kerstan Keramik in Kandern, in the heart of the Markgräflerland ceramic region. His work is characterised by technical precision, understated elegance, and a profound appreciation for Japanese ceramic aesthetics. Today, Kerstan's studio pieces are increasingly appreciated by collectors of contemporary and twentieth-century studio pottery.
Design Details
• Artist: Horst Kerstan
• Manufacturer: Kerstan Keramik Kandern
• Origin: Germany
• Date: 1979
• Material: Stoneware ceramic
• Finish: Glossy flowing glaze
• Colour: Celadon blue, blue-green, olive green, grey
• Form: Bamboo-inspired vessel with subtly sculpted contours
• Markings: Signed and dated "1979" in brown brushwork beneath the base; original yellow Kerstan Keramik Kandern label present
Dimensions
• Height: 23.5 cm
• Width: 11.5 cm
• Depth: 11.5 cm
• Opening Diameter: 10 cm
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, or restorations observed. Minor firing characteristics, glaze variations, and subtle irregularities are inherent to the artist's hand-crafted process and contribute to the individuality of the piece.
Why This Piece Stands Out
• Authentic studio ceramic by renowned German potter Horst Kerstan
• Signed and dated example from 1979
• Original Kerstan Keramik Kandern label preserved
• Sophisticated celadon-inspired flowing glaze effects
• Elegant bamboo-influenced form balancing organic softness and formal restraint
• A refined addition to collections of German studio ceramics, contemporary pottery, and Japanese-inspired design
This vase exemplifies the qualities that define Horst Kerstan's most accomplished work: technical mastery, quiet sophistication, and a profound dialogue between European studio pottery and East Asian ceramic traditions. Whether displayed as a functional vessel or appreciated as a sculptural object in its own right, it offers a timeless presence that transcends changing decorative trends.
General Information
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All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minimal traces of age; any significant flaws will be clearly mentioned.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBlueMaterialCeramicNumber of items1StyleVintageHeight23 cmWidth11 cmDepth11 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales