Heinrich Fuchs for Lorenz Hutschenreuther – “ARCHAIS” XXL Vase | Bisque Porcelain, Germany, 1960s–1970s (34 cm)
A striking sculptural bisque porcelain vase from the renowned ARCHAIS series by Heinrich Fuchs, produced by Lorenz Hutschenreuther in Selb, Bavaria, during the 1960s–1970s. This tall and elegant example represents the synthesis of modernist form, technical precision, and tactile abstraction that defines postwar German porcelain at its most ambitious.
Design & Concept
At 34 cm in height, this model stands among the most commanding forms within the ARCHAIS series. The vase is conceived as a strict, almost architectural volume, structured through a deeply articulated relief that evokes geological strata, eroded surfaces, or modernist façades.
The matte bisque porcelain absorbs light, allowing shadows to define the rhythm of the surface. As the viewer moves around the object, the relief shifts subtly in tone and intensity, creating a quiet optical vibration. This interplay between repetition and variation situates the work at the intersection of Op Art, Brutalism, and organic abstraction.
The result is an object that transcends its functional role—less a vessel than a sculptural presence, defined by proportion, surface, and silence.
Details
Designer: Heinrich Fuchs
Manufacturer: Lorenz Hutschenreuther, Selb, Bavaria, Germany
Series: ARCHAIS
Material: Bisque porcelain (unglazed, matte surface)
Color: White
Era: 1960s–1970s
Style: Op Art / Mid-Century Modern / Brutalist
Dimensions
Height: 34 cm
Width/Depth: approx. 8 × 8 cm
Marked with Hutschenreuther Germany stamp and inscribed “Fuchs” on the base.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition with minimal traces of age and use. No chips, cracks, or repairs. The surface remains crisp and clean, preserving its original tactile quality.
Designer Context
Heinrich Fuchs (1928–2017) is considered one of the key innovators in postwar German porcelain. During his work with Hutschenreuther in the 1960s and 1970s, he redefined porcelain as a medium for sculptural and architectural exploration.
His ARCHAIS series, developed between 1965 and 1970, marked a decisive departure from traditional decorative porcelain. Instead of ornament, Fuchs introduced structure, repetition, and surface modulation—creating objects that engage both visually and physically.
Manufacturer Context
Lorenz Hutschenreuther, one of Bavaria’s historic porcelain manufactories, embraced modernist design during this period, aligning itself with contemporary artistic movements. Through collaborations with designers such as Fuchs, the company transformed its identity from a producer of traditional wares into a platform for avant-garde ceramic design.
Collector’s Perspective
This piece offers:
– One of the largest and most desirable ARCHAIS models (34 cm)
– A strong architectural form with pronounced relief articulation
– A key example of bisque porcelain as sculptural medium
– A commanding presence suitable as a standalone statement object
Summary
This ARCHAIS XXL vase embodies:
– The tactile minimalism of Heinrich Fuchs
– The craftsmanship of Hutschenreuther
– The intersection of art, architecture, and design in mid-century Europe
A rare and museum-worthy example of German modernist porcelain—monumental in presence, precise in execution, and timeless in its restraint.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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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. Import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are carefully described and photographed. Vintage pieces may show minor traces of age; any significant imperfections will be noted.
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Private sale under German law: no returns, refunds, or warranties.
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Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsWhiteMaterialPorcelainNumber of items1Height34 cmWidth8 cmDepth8 cm