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Rosenthal Studio-Line Turquoise Purple Graphic Design by Theo Baumann Vase Duo Rare
€449
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About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales
Product description
Rosenthal Studio-Line “Op Graphic” Vase Duo
Design by Theo Baumann
for Rosenthal
Germany, 1964
Turquoise & Purple Glazed Porcelain with Black Op-Art Pattern
Chromatic Geometry: Turquoise Meets Violet
A powerful chromatic dialogue in porcelain.
This rare Rosenthal Studio-Line pairing brings together two bottle-form vases designed by Theo Baumann in 1964 — one in luminous turquoise, the other in deep violet purple — both wrapped in Baumann’s precise black geometric decor.
The forms are identical in typology yet radically transformed through color. Each vase features a strong, rounded shoulder, narrowing neck, and cylindrical mouth — a silhouette that balances architectural clarity with mid-century softness.
The surface carries Baumann’s signature rhythmic banding: repeating ovals, medallions, linear ribs, and stylized geometric motifs applied with screen-printed precision. The pattern encircles the bodies seamlessly, creating visual vibration — controlled, systematic, almost mathematical.
This is Op Art translated into porcelain.
The Pieces
Turquoise Vase (1964)
Height: 23 cm
Width: approx. 17.5 cm
Opening diameter: approx. 8 cm
A broader, more expansive presence. The larger scale allows the geometric frieze to unfold with greater visual amplitude. The glossy turquoise glaze intensifies the contrast of the black graphic decor.
Purple Vase – Model 4089 (1964)
Height: 18 cm
Width: approx. 13.5 cm
Opening diameter: approx. 6 cm
A more compact and intimate counterpart. The saturated violet tone gives the black ornament a denser, almost velvety depth. The pattern appears slightly more concentrated due to the curvature of the smaller form.
About Theo Baumann
Theo Baumann (1924–2016) was among the most disciplined and intellectually rigorous designers working with Rosenthal in the 1960s. Influenced by Bauhaus principles and systematic design thinking, he approached porcelain as a field for modular repetition and graphic order.
His Rosenthal works are characterized by:
• Serial pattern logic
• Architectural clarity
• Precision in proportion
• High-contrast color fields
• Op-Art influence without visual chaos
Rather than decorative flourish, Baumann pursued structural rhythm. His objects feel engineered as much as designed.
Design Context
The mid-1960s marked a decisive moment for Rosenthal Studio-Line. The company invited avant-garde designers to rethink porcelain beyond traditional ornament. Screen-printing technologies allowed for unprecedented graphic sharpness and repetition.
This turquoise-and-purple pairing embodies that progressive spirit:
• Bold color experimentation
• Industrial precision in pattern application
• Sculptural bottle-form silhouette
• Dialogue between surface and volume
Displayed together, the duo achieves maximum impact through contrast. The cool turquoise and the saturated violet operate almost like complementary notes in a modernist composition.
Condition
Both vases are in very good to excellent vintage condition.
• No chips
• No cracks
• No restorations
• Glossy glaze remains vibrant
• Pattern crisp and intact
Minor age-related traces consistent with careful preservation.
Both marked Rosenthal Germany on base.
Collector’s Perspective
Particularly desirable attributes:
• Early production year (1964)
• Two distinct colorways of the same design
• Model 4089 included
• Strong Op-Art relevance
• Rare color contrast pairing
Ideal for collectors of:
• German modernism
• 1960s graphic design
• Rosenthal Studio-Line
• Bauhaus-influenced decorative arts
• High-impact modern interiors
Together they form a disciplined yet exuberant mid-century statement — graphic, architectural, unmistakably 1960s.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Questions welcome — I respond promptly.
International buyers are welcome. Please contact me in advance for exact shipping costs outside the EU. Customs 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 goodColorsTurquoise, Purple, BlackMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2BrandRosenthalHeight23 cmWidth18 cmDepth18 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales