Rosenthal Creative Center “Blockglas Amber” Globe Vase – Monumental Optical Glass Sculpture, Germany, 2012
A spectacular and highly substantial glass object from Rosenthal's Creative Center collection, this monumental "Blockglas Amber" globe vase transforms traditional glassmaking into a sculptural statement of colour, weight, and optical illusion.
Produced in Germany in 2012, the design explores the fascinating relationship between transparency, mass, and light. Constructed from thick layers of amber and clear optical glass, the vase possesses an almost architectural presence, appearing less like a conventional vessel and more like a contemporary sculpture carved from solid crystal.
Its spherical silhouette is interrupted by a precisely positioned circular opening, creating a striking tension between geometric perfection and functional form. As light penetrates the glass, rich amber tones dissolve into clear crystal, producing constantly shifting reflections, magnifications, and internal distortions.
Design & Aesthetic
The Blockglas series reflects Rosenthal's continued commitment to contemporary design and technical excellence. The vase belongs to a tradition of sculptural glass objects that blur the boundaries between decorative art and modern sculpture.
The visual language evokes:
• architectural glass structures
• contemporary minimalist sculpture
• optical art and light installations
• geological formations
• monumental crystal objects
Particularly captivating is the way the thick glass body manipulates its surroundings, compressing and refracting light through multiple layers of amber and clear crystal.
Material & Craftsmanship
Manufactured by Rosenthal in Germany, the vase showcases exceptional glassmaking expertise. The extraordinary thickness of the material gives the object remarkable depth and presence, while the polished surfaces enhance its optical complexity.
At approximately 9 kilograms, the piece possesses a physical and visual weight rarely encountered in contemporary decorative glass.
Details
Model: Blockglas Amber (47120)
Designer: Rosenthal Creative Center
Manufacturer: Rosenthal
Origin: Germany
Year: 2012
Material: Heavy optical glass
Colour: Amber and clear
Dimensions:
Height: 20 cm
Width: 23 cm
Depth: 21 cm
Opening Diameter: 3 cm
Weight: Approx. 9 kg
Style: Contemporary Design / Sculptural Glass / Minimalism
Condition
Excellent vintage condition.
No chips, cracks, or repairs observed. Minor signs of age and handling consistent with careful display and use.
Collector's Note
Rosenthal's glass collections of the early twenty-first century continued the company's long tradition of merging design innovation with exceptional craftsmanship. The Blockglas series stands out for its sculptural ambition and technical sophistication, transforming the vase into an object that functions equally well as contemporary art, centrepiece, or architectural accent.
Its impressive scale, exceptional weight, and rich amber coloration make it particularly effective in interiors featuring natural stone, dark woods, bronze, smoked glass, or contemporary minimalist furnishings.
Whether displayed empty or with a simple arrangement, this piece commands attention through its remarkable interaction with light and its almost monolithic presence.
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 goodColorsOrangeMaterialGlassNumber of items1Height20 cmWidth23 cmDepth23 cm