Martin Freyer for Rosenthal Studio-Line – "Plissée" Bisque Porcelain Vase Duo, Germany, 1970s
A striking pair of porcelain vases from Martin Freyer's celebrated Plissée series for Rosenthal Studio-Line. Designed in 1968 and produced throughout the 1970s, the series remains one of the most iconic achievements of post-war German porcelain design, transforming simple vessels into sculptural explorations of rhythm, light, and movement.
Executed in matte white bisque porcelain, both vases feature Freyer's distinctive pleated relief, inspired by the soft folds of gathered fabric. The deeply modelled surfaces create constantly changing patterns of light and shadow, lending the rigid porcelain an almost textile-like fluidity.
Presented together, these two large-scale examples create a harmonious architectural composition. Their contrasting silhouettes—one rounded and organic, the other flaring and almost trumpet-like—demonstrate the remarkable versatility of Freyer's design language.
Large Ovoid Vase – Model 3021
A beautifully balanced, bulbous form that emphasises the vertical movement of the relief decoration. The gently tapering neck and rounded body create an elegant, sculptural presence.
Height: 27 cm
Width: 19 cm
Depth: 19 cm
Opening Diameter: 11 cm
Marked as First Quality (1. Wahl).
Trumpet Vase – Model 3025
A dramatic and highly architectural interpretation of the Plissée motif. The body narrows towards the base before opening into a generous, flared rim, accentuating the movement of the pleated surface.
Height: 26 cm
Width: 23 cm
Depth: 23 cm
Marked as Second Quality (2. Wahl), although no significant imperfections are apparent and the vase displays beautifully.
About the Designer
Hans Martin Freyer (1909–1975) was among the most influential designers associated with Rosenthal Studio-Line. Trained as a painter, graphic artist, and designer, he worked across multiple disciplines before joining Rosenthal between 1964 and 1974, creating some of the company's most important modernist designs. His work is celebrated for combining artistic experimentation with industrial precision.
About Rosenthal Studio-Line
Founded under Philip Rosenthal, Studio-Line became one of Europe's foremost platforms for contemporary porcelain design, collaborating with leading artists and architects to redefine porcelain as a medium of sculptural expression. The Plissée series remains one of the programme's enduring classics.
Design Details
Designer: Martin Freyer
Manufacturer: Rosenthal Studio-Line
Series: Plissée
Models: 3021 and 3025
Design Year: 1968
Production Dates: 1973 and 1977
Origin: Germany
Material: Bisque porcelain
Finish: Matte
Colour: White
Style: Mid-Century Modern / Op Art
Condition
Very good to excellent vintage condition with only minor traces of age and handling. No chips, cracks, or restorations observed. One vase is marked 1. Wahl and the other 2. Wahl.
Why This Duo Stands Out
• Two substantial examples from Martin Freyer's iconic Plissée series
• Sculptural relief inspired by pleated textile forms
• Exceptional interplay of light, shadow, and geometry
• Matte white bisque porcelain highlighting the architectural surfaces
• Highly collectible examples of post-war German design
• Beautiful contrast between organic and flaring silhouettes
• Ideal for modernist, minimalist, and collector-focused interiors
More than fifty years after its introduction, Plissée remains remarkably contemporary. Displayed together, these two vases become less decorative objects than studies in form, perception, and movement—an elegant testament to Martin Freyer's enduring vision.
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 goodColorsWhiteMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2Height27 cmWidth19 cmDepth19 cm