Rosenthal Studio-Linie Op Art Vase Duo
Design: Martin Freyer
Germany · 1970s · Bisque Porcelain
A striking sculptural vase duo designed by Martin Freyer for Rosenthal during the 1970s — a period in which Rosenthal Studio-Linie collaborated with progressive designers to redefine porcelain as a medium for contemporary art.
Freyer’s work sits at the intersection of Op Art, relief sculpture, and architectural minimalism. These vases are not merely decorative vessels but spatial objects that engage light, shadow, and perception.
Design & Artistic Context/
Op Art & Relief Structure
While Op Art is often associated with graphic black-and-white illusionism, Freyer translated its principles into three-dimensional form. Instead of printed pattern, he created optical movement through sculpted relief and surface modulation.
The vertical structures appear to shift depending on viewpoint and light incidence. The textured façades produce subtle optical tension — a dialogue between geometry and organic distortion. This sculptural strategy places the works firmly within the experimental design language of the 1970s.
Material & Finish
Material: Bisque porcelain
Exterior: Matte white
Interior: Glossy white
The unglazed bisque exterior absorbs light, emphasizing form and shadow rather than reflection. The glossy interior creates a quiet material contrast — a refined Studio-Linie hallmark.
Dimensions
* XL Vase: 32 cm height
* L Vase: 25 cm height
The proportional relationship between the two pieces creates a compelling vertical dialogue when displayed together, reinforcing their architectural presence.
Condition
Very good vintage condition.
Minor age-appropriate traces consistent with careful use.
No cracks, chips, or structural defects.
About Martin Freyer
Martin Freyer was among the designers who shaped Rosenthal Studio-Linie’s progressive identity in the 1970s. His work reflects the era’s fascination with optical perception, structured surfaces, and sculptural reduction. Rather than relying on decorative ornament, Freyer explored how porcelain itself could become a medium of visual movement.
Rosenthal’s Studio-Linie program was instrumental in elevating porcelain into the realm of collectible design — collaborating with architects, artists, and avant-garde designers to push material boundaries.
Why This Duo Matters
* Authentic 1970s Rosenthal Studio-Linie production
* Sculptural interpretation of Op Art in porcelain
* Strong architectural presence
* Museum-quality modernist design language
* Increasingly collectible Studio-Linie works
These vases are emblematic of a moment when European porcelain manufacturing aligned itself with contemporary art movements. They embody the intellectual and formal experimentation that defines high-level 1970s German design.
A rare opportunity to acquire a cohesive sculptural pair from Rosenthal’s most progressive design decade.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Questions are welcome and will be answered promptly.
International buyers are very welcome. Please contact me in advance for precise shipping costs outside the EU. Import duties or taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show light signs of age; any significant flaws are clearly stated.
Combined shipping may be possible — please inquire before purchase.
Private sale under German law:
No returns, refunds, or warranties.
Buyer information is used solely to complete the transaction and arrange shipment.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsWhiteMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2BrandRosenthalHeight32 cmWidth12 cmDepth10 cm