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Jan van der Vaart for Rosenthal Studio-Line "Nautica" Vase & Bowl Duo in Black Porcelain, Porcelaine Noire Series, 1980s
€399Bid from €360
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Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 21 sales
Product description
**Jan van der Vaart for Rosenthal Studio-Line "Nautica" Vase & Bowl Duo in Black Porcelain, Porcelaine Noire Series, 1980s**
**Germany / Netherlands**
A rare and sculptural pairing of black porcelain vessels designed by **Jan van der Vaart** for **Rosenthal Studio-Line**, circa early 1980s. Part of the **"Nautica"** series within Rosenthal's trailblazing **Porcelaine Noire** collection, these forms are both poetic and architectural—evoking the tension between ancient ritual vessels and futuristic object design.
**Design & Dialogue:**
Van der Vaart’s "Nautica" series speaks the language of abstraction: forms that are at once symbolic, elemental, and infused with a nautical sensibility—like stylized sails, ship prows, or celestial instruments. The ensemble comprises:
* **A tall, lidded vase** (H 22 × W 14 × D 12 cm)
A vertical matte cylinder, crowned with a spectacular, glossy, intersecting lid form reminiscent of a gyroscopic compass or a wind-blown sail. A study in controlled asymmetry and kinetic suggestion.
* **A wide, open bowl** (H 9 × W 22 × D 22 cm)
Circular yet winged, the matte body supports glossy, arched extensions—suggesting movement, lift, or unfolding. A vessel that feels ceremonial, yet ultra-modern.
Both pieces juxtapose **matte and gloss black porcelain**—a Rosenthal innovation from the *Porcelaine Noire* line—creating a subtle chiaroscuro of surface, light, and shadow. The finish heightens the sculptural quality of the objects, while the deep black hue lends them gravitas and restraint.
**About Porcelaine Noire & Rosenthal Studio-Line:**
Developed in the late 1970s, *Porcelaine Noire* was an experimental Rosenthal line designed to showcase the materiality and conceptual potential of black porcelain. Visionary designers—including **Jan van der Vaart**, **Hans Theo Baumann**, and **Tapio Wirkkala**—were invited to create limited shapes that could merge fine art with functional form. The *Studio-Line* imprint marked Rosenthal's commitment to bridging industry and avant-garde design.
**Designer Bio – Jan van der Vaart (1931–2000):**
A monumental figure in postwar European ceramics, Van der Vaart was known for his precise, geometric vessels and sculptural philosophy rooted in Dutch Modernism, De Stijl, and Constructivism. His objects often blur the lines between architecture and utility, with a spiritual restraint and devotion to proportion. Works held in the **Stedelijk Museum**, the **V\&A**, and major Dutch and German public collections.
**Condition:**
Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, or repairs. Surfaces retain original matte/gloss contrast with only minimal handling wear. Both pieces fully marked with **Rosenthal Studio-Line** and **Porcelaine Noire** insignia; stamped “Germany.”
**Why Collect This:**
* Rare **complete set** from the **Nautica** series
* Sculptural black porcelain with extraordinary surface duality
* Designed by **Jan van der Vaart**, a master of geometric modernism
* Iconic contribution to Rosenthal’s **Porcelaine Noire** experiment
* Exceptional visual synergy—museum-worthy ceramic objects
---GENERAL INFORMATION---
**Explore my profile for more retro vases, vintage fashion, and designer goods!**
**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. Any import duties or taxes are the buyer's responsibility.*
I strive to describe all items as accurately and honestly as possible, including detailed photos of the actual items for sale. However, please be aware that descriptions can be subjective. Vintage or pre-owned items often show signs of wear due to age, and while I make every effort to identify and note any significant flaws, some minor imperfections may be overlooked.
Naturally occurring manufacturer’s defects, slight surface scratching, or wear consistent with normal use may be present.
Any condition beyond typical vintage wear, such as chips, cracks, or other significant defects, will be clearly noted in the description and visible in the photos.
*If you are purchasing multiple items, please contact me before completing your purchase to confirm whether they can be shipped together in the same parcel.*
**Important Notice:** This transaction is between a private seller and a private buyer of secondhand items. **No refunds, returns, or warranties** are accepted or provided, in accordance with German law. By purchasing, you agree to these terms.
**Privacy Notice:** Buyer information will be used solely for the purpose of completing the transaction and arranging shipment.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBlackMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2BrandRosenthalHeight9 cmWidth22 cmDepth22 cm
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About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 21 sales