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Rosenthal Studio-Line “Owl” Vase Duo Wolf Karnagel Black & White Porcelain
€299Bid from €249
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales
Product description
A sculptural vase duo from the Rosenthal Studio-Line, designed by Wolf Karnagel and produced by Rosenthal.
The design is commonly known as the “Owl” vase (Eule) due to its abstracted silhouette. Karnagel translated the form of an owl into a striking architectural object: the softly indented central ridge suggests a beak or sternum, while the curved sides evoke the rounded volume of wings.
The larger vase is executed in Rosenthal’s iconic Porcelaine Noire, a deep black porcelain body developed to achieve a rich, light-absorbing surface that became emblematic of Rosenthal’s avant-garde Studio-Line period. The smaller vase appears in glossy white porcelain, creating a compelling visual contrast when displayed together.
Both pieces embody the sculptural minimalism that defined Rosenthal’s design philosophy during the postwar modernist era—objects that function equally as vessels and small architectural sculptures.
Placed side by side, the pair highlights Karnagel’s refined geometric language and demonstrates how variations in scale and color transform the same form into two distinct visual statements.
Designer
Wolf Karnagel (born 1939) is a German designer and sculptor associated with Rosenthal’s influential Studio-Line program. Trained as a sculptor, he approached porcelain with a strong architectural sensibility, creating objects that blur the boundaries between functional design and sculpture.
His works for Rosenthal are recognized for their clear geometry, restrained elegance, and subtle anthropomorphic references. Karnagel’s designs are represented in both private collections and museums devoted to postwar modernist design.
Object Details
Manufacturer: Rosenthal Studio-Line
Designer: Wolf Karnagel
Model: Owl / Eule Vase
Origin: Germany
Material: Porcelain
Large Vase
Color: Black (Porcelaine Noire)
Finish: Matte exterior / glossy interior
Height: approx. 14.5 cm
Width: approx. 14 cm
Depth: approx. 6.5 cm
Small Vase
Color: White
Finish: Glossy porcelain
Height: approx. 9.5 cm
Width: approx. 9 cm
Depth: approx. 5.5 cm
Date: 1960s–1970s (white example marked 1973)
Condition
Excellent vintage condition.
No chips, cracks, or repairs.
The porcelain surfaces remain clean and well preserved.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Please explore our profile for more vintage and modernist vases.
All items are photographed and described as accurately as possible. Vintage objects may show minimal signs of age and use consistent with their history.
Any significant imperfections will always be clearly documented in the photographs and description.
International buyers are welcome. Please note that any import duties, taxes, or customs fees are the responsibility of the buyer.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBlackMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2StyleVintageBrandRosenthalHeight15 cmWidth14 cmDepth8 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales