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Jean-Claude de Crousaz for Arpot & Atelier Mario Enke Workshop Curated Duo
€790Bid from €679
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Jean-Claude de Crousaz for Arpot & Andrea Denner for Mario Enke Workshop – Curated Duo of Sculptural Studio Ceramic Vases
Switzerland & Germany, 1960s–1970s
An exceptional curated duo of European studio ceramic vases bringing together two highly tactile and sculptural approaches to postwar ceramic modernism. Although created in different contexts — one in Switzerland by Jean-Claude de Crousaz for Arpot Swiss Keramik, the other in Germany within the Mario Enke workshop near Potsdam — the two objects enter into a remarkably harmonious visual dialogue centered around biomorphic abstraction, surface experimentation, and organic form.
Together, they embody the shift that occurred in European ceramics during the 1960s and 1970s, when vessels increasingly moved beyond pure functionality and became autonomous sculptural objects.
The larger vase by Jean-Claude de Crousaz presents an elegant vertical counterpoint to the compact spherical form by Andrea Denner. Both works share a fascination with tactile relief surfaces, geological textures, and natural growth patterns, yet each approaches these ideas differently: one through rhythmic asymmetrical nodules and refined glaze transitions, the other through cratered matte surfaces, incised textures, and compact planetary geometry.
The result is a pairing that feels highly architectural and deeply organic at the same time — somewhere between marine forms, seed structures, volcanic matter, and modernist sculpture.
Jean-Claude de Crousaz Vase – Arpot Swiss Keramik
Designed by Swiss ceramic artist Jean-Claude de Crousaz, this sculptural vase combines softly curved geometry with a richly articulated relief surface composed of raised nodules of varying size. The satin glaze transitions between beige, cream, and warm rust tones, enhancing the object’s material depth and tactile quality.
De Crousaz, educated at the École des Arts Décoratifs in Geneva, belongs to the important generation of postwar Swiss ceramic artists who merged sculptural experimentation with refined craftsmanship. His works remain relatively uncommon outside Switzerland and are increasingly sought after by collectors of European studio ceramics.
Height: 24 cm
Width: 15 cm
Depth: 13 cm
Andrea Denner for Mario Enke Workshop Vase
The second vase, produced in the Mario Enke workshop near Potsdam and modeled by workshop master Andrea Denner in the early 1970s, explores a more compact and introspective sculptural language. Its rounded spherical body is interrupted only by a small central opening, emphasizing mass, texture, and surface rhythm over traditional utility.
The surface combines muted purple nodules, incised linear textures, and volcanic matte glazing in earthy beige and grey tones. The object recalls geological formations, satellite imagery, or marine organisms, firmly positioning it within the experimental language of 1970s Central European studio pottery.
Height: 9 cm
Width / Diameter: approx. 14 cm
Details
Designers: Jean-Claude de Crousaz & Andrea Denner after Mario Enke
Manufacturers / Workshops: Arpot Swiss Keramik & Mario Enke Workshop
Countries: Switzerland & Germany
Period: 1960s–1970s
Material: Ceramic
Finish: Satin and matte textured glazes
Colours: Beige, cream, rust, grey, muted purple
Condition: Both pieces are in very good vintage condition with only minor traces of age and handling consistent with studio ceramic production and age. No visible cracks or repairs. Please review all photographs carefully.
Collector’s Note
Curated ceramic pairings of this quality are increasingly difficult to assemble. While stylistically distinct, these two vases complement each other exceptionally well through their shared tactile vocabulary, biomorphic sensibility, and sculptural restraint.
An outstanding ensemble for collectors of European studio ceramics, brutalist interiors, organic modernism, or postwar decorative arts.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Please explore our profile for more vintage vases!
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.
Private sale under law: no returns, refunds, or warranties.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsTaupe, Multi Color, Orange, YellowMaterialCeramicNumber of items2Height24 cmWidth15 cmDepth13 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales