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Rosenthal Studio-Line Lidded Porcelain Box Gold Décor Design Tapio Wirkkala
€120
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About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 24 sales
Product description
Rosenthal Studio-Line
Lidded Porcelain Box with Gold Radial Décor
Design by Tapio Wirkkala
for Rosenthal AG
Germany, circa 1973
White porcelain with satin gold decoration
A refined lidded porcelain box from Rosenthal’s celebrated Studio-Line program, designed by Tapio Wirkkala during the early 1970s. The object reflects the Finnish designer’s characteristic ability to combine strict geometric clarity with subtle sculptural detail.
The form itself is deceptively simple: a compact cylindrical vessel resting on a slightly rounded base. The body is encircled by delicate vertical ribbing that animates the otherwise smooth white porcelain surface. This fine fluting catches light softly and introduces a tactile rhythm that contrasts with the polished interior and the smooth underside of the lid.
The lid provides the visual focal point of the object. Its satin gold decoration is composed of a precise radial pattern emanating from a central disc, divided by fine white lines into concentric segments. The motif resembles both a stylized sunburst and a delicate architectural rosette. As light moves across the metallic surface, the pattern shifts subtly between matte and luminous reflections.
This interplay between sculptural restraint and graphic brilliance is typical of Wirkkala’s work for Rosenthal, where decorative elements never overwhelm the clarity of the form but instead enhance its structure.
Dimensions
Height: approx. 6.5 cm
Diameter: approx. 12 cm
Material: Porcelain with satin gold decoration
Origin: Germany
Manufacturer: Rosenthal Studio-Line
Condition
Very good vintage condition with minimal signs of age.
The porcelain body and lid are well preserved, with the gold décor remaining bright and intact.
Design context
Tapio Wirkkala (1915–1985) was one of the most influential figures in twentieth-century Scandinavian design. Renowned for his work in glass, wood, metal, and ceramics, he collaborated with Rosenthal from the late 1960s onward, contributing a series of sculptural porcelain forms distinguished by their balance of organic inspiration and geometric discipline.
Within Rosenthal’s Studio-Line program—known for its collaborations with leading international designers—Wirkkala’s pieces stand out for their quiet elegance and architectural precision.
Collector’s perspective
This lidded box represents a particularly appealing example of Wirkkala’s decorative vocabulary: restrained in form yet enriched by the sophisticated radial gold motif. Objects of this scale are versatile and highly collectible, functioning equally well as a decorative object, jewelry box, or small sculptural accent.
Its combination of crisp porcelain form, fine ribbed texture, and luminous gold ornament embodies the refined modernism that defines Rosenthal Studio-Line design of the early 1970s.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Please explore our profile for more vintage vases and Studio-Line pieces.
International buyers welcome – 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 goodColorsGold, WhiteMaterialPorcelainNumber of items1StyleVintageBrandRosenthalHeight6 cmWidth12 cmDepth12 cm
Seller information
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 24 sales