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Pair of Richard Uhlemeyer Studio Stoneware Vases – Turquoise Reduction Glaze – Germany, ca. 1940s-1950s Art Deco Bauhaus
€360Bid from €279
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Pair of Richard Uhlemeyer Studio Stoneware Vases – Turquoise Reduction Glaze – Germany, ca. 1940s-1950s
A remarkable and highly atmospheric pair of German studio ceramic vases attributed to Richard Uhlemeyer, distinguished by their luminous turquoise-speckled reduction glazes layered over deep charcoal and oxblood grounds.
These pieces belong to the rich tradition of postwar German studio pottery that absorbed both Scandinavian modernism and East Asian ceramic philosophy, particularly the Japanese appreciation for surface irregularity, firing traces, and quiet asymmetry. The result is work that feels simultaneously modernist and ancient — refined in silhouette yet deeply tactile and elemental.
The larger vase possesses an elegant amphora-like form with a restrained, architectural neck flowing into a softly swelling body. Its glaze is especially striking: a mist-like turquoise surface hovering over dark iron-rich stoneware, interrupted by delicate crackle-like linear incisions that resemble abstract maps, river systems, or veins in stone. The surface shifts constantly depending on light — from pale celadon tones to darker metallic graphite nuances.
Its smaller companion introduces a more compact, rounded profile with a subtly flared lip revealing deep copper-red interior tones. Together, the two vases form an unusually harmonious dialogue between proportion, texture, and chromatic depth. Their relationship feels almost geological, as if shaped through oxidation and volcanic pressure rather than studio processes alone.
Richard Uhlemeyer’s ceramics are appreciated for precisely this balance between technical mastery and organic unpredictability. The glazes reveal a sophisticated understanding of reduction firing and mineral reactions, where copper and iron oxides create nuanced transitions between turquoise, smoky grey, black, and red undertones. The fine craquelure-like linear markings further reinforce the sculptural and meditative quality of the objects.
The ensemble works beautifully within wabi-sabi, Japandi, brutalist, and mid-century modern interiors, while also holding strong sculptural presence as standalone objects.
Details
Artist: Richard Uhlemeyer (attributed)
Origin: Germany
Period: ca. 1940s-1950s
Material: Stoneware / studio ceramics
Technique: Reduction glaze ceramics
Colors: Turquoise blue, charcoal grey, black, oxblood red
Finish: Satin to semi-gloss
Dimensions
Large Vase
Height: 25.5 cm
Opening Diameter: 12.5 cm
Small Vase
Height: 17 cm
Diameter: 14 cm
Condition
Good vintage condition overall with age-appropriate traces of use and firing irregularities inherent to studio pottery. The larger vase has a small chip to the foot rim, visible in photographs and mentioned for accuracy. Otherwise both pieces present exceptionally well.
An elegant and sculptural pair of German studio ceramics with a rare chromatic presence and strong collector appeal.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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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 goodColorsGrey, Mint, Turquoise, Green, Red, Multi ColorMaterialCeramicNumber of items2Height25 cmWidth12 cmDepth12 cmSigns of usageChipped
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales