Werner Uhl for Rosenthal – “Pisa” Vase Duo in Porcelaine Noire | Studio-Linie, Germany, ca. 1980s
Minimalist Relief Design in Matte Black Bisque Porcelain
Step into the world of sculptural minimalism with this curated vase duo from the “Pisa” series, designed by Werner Uhl for Rosenthal’s prestigious Studio-Linie. These two vases — in rare black matte Porcelaine Noire — are exquisite examples of postwar German design, where form becomes function, and decoration becomes architecture.
Design & Material
The Pisa series is marked by its geometric precision and rhythmic, tessellated surface relief — a signature of Uhl’s sculptural approach. Here, the deep black bisque porcelain reveals the full depth of the design:
Angular facets catch and sculpt the light
The matte finish enhances shadow play and tactile contrast
The absence of glaze emphasizes the purity of the porcelain body
Rosenthal’s Porcelaine Noire is a patented innovation: a colored-through, high-fired porcelain body developed for maximum chromatic depth without surface pigmentation. It is not painted or glazed, but naturally black — a technical feat of the Studio-Linie’s daring era.
About the Designer – Werner Uhl (1926–2005)
A master of spatial rhythm and modernist restraint, Werner Uhl was one of Rosenthal’s most influential postwar designers. His “Pisa” and “Sahara” series for the Studio-Linie exemplify a distinctly architectural approach to porcelain — balancing clarity, relief, and functionality. Uhl’s work reflects a subtle shift from decorative motifs to structural abstraction, making him a key figure in the transition to modern design in West German ceramics.
About the Manufacturer – Rosenthal Studio-Linie
Founded in 1879 and redefined in the 1960s, Rosenthal Studio-Linie brought radical artistic voices into the realm of industrial porcelain. Collaborating with designers like Bjørn Wiinblad, Tapio Wirkkala, Raymond Loewy, and Werner Uhl, the Studio-Linie produced works that blurred the line between usable object and modern sculpture. “Porcelaine Noire” became one of its most visually arresting material innovations.
Set Specifications:
Vase 1
Model: Pisa (Unnumbered)
Height: 28.5 cm
Diameter: 9 × 9 cm
Finish: Matte black Porcelaine Noire
Marked: Rosenthal Studio-Linie Germany
Vase 2
Model: Pisa 3506/24
Height: 23 cm
Diameter: 8.5 × 8.5 cm
Finish: Matte black Porcelaine Noire
Marked: Rosenthal Studio-Linie Germany
Condition:
Both vases are in excellent vintage condition, with minimal signs of wear consistent with age. No chips, cracks, or restorations. The unglazed surface may display minor manufacturing nuances typical of bisque porcelain.
Why Collect This Duo?
Rare original examples of Porcelaine Noire from Rosenthal
Sculptural works by Werner Uhl, ideal for collectors of Studio-Linie or postwar design
A visually balanced pairing — bold yet understated
Perfect for interiors inspired by Brutalism, Bauhaus, or Minimalism
GENERAL INFORMATION
Questions are welcome and will be answered promptly.
International buyers are welcome! Please contact in advance for precise delivery costs if you're located outside the EU. Any import duties or taxes are the buyer's responsibility.
All items are described and photographed as accurately as possible. Vintage items may show light wear consistent with age; major imperfections are always noted.
Multiple items can often be shipped together — please inquire before purchase.
Private sale under German law: no refunds, returns, or warranties. Buyer information will be used solely for completing the transaction and arranging shipment.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBlackMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2BrandRosenthalHeight29 cmWidth9 cmDepth29 cm