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Rosenthal Tapio Wirkkala Dorothy Hafner Century New Wave Fruits Bowl & Vase Set
€590Bid from €449
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Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 20 sales
Product description
Tapio Wirkkala & Dorothy Hafner for Rosenthal
“Century: New Wave” Vase & Bowl Duo – Studio-Line, Germany
Postmodern Collector’s Set · Sculptural Glazed Porcelain
A bold and sculptural porcelain ensemble from Rosenthal’s Studio-Line, merging the visionary forms of Finnish design icon Tapio Wirkkala with the vibrant graphic language of American artist Dorothy Hafner. Produced in 1986 and 1989 as part of the Century: New Wave series, this striking vase-and-bowl duo embodies the optimism, rhythm, and sculptural finesse of high 1980s postmodernism.
Design & Aesthetic
The Forms
The tall vase (height 22 cm, width approx. 18 cm) and the generously proportioned bowl (height 6.5 cm, diameter 30 cm) reflect Wirkkala’s refined architectural clarity. Their dynamic silhouettes—flaring, tilting, balanced—are more than functional forms; they are spatial compositions, designed to interact with light and motion.
The Decoration
Hafner’s unmistakable surface design enlivens the crisp white porcelain with sweeping lines, rhythmic dashes, and joyful pastel tones, punctuated by black accents. The result is energetic but precise—playful yet deeply composed. A glossy glaze unifies the ensemble, amplifying its visual movement.
About the Designers
Tapio Wirkkala (1915–1985) was one of the most influential Finnish designers of the 20th century, celebrated for his work across glass, wood, metal, and porcelain. His designs for Rosenthal brought sculptural purity and biomorphic clarity to industrial porcelain production.
Dorothy Hafner (b. 1952) is a pioneering figure in American postmodern design, best known for her Memphis-influenced ceramics and joyful, kinetic compositions. Her collaborations with Rosenthal in the 1980s were among the brand’s most graphically daring and collectible moments.
Key Details
• Manufacturer: Rosenthal Studio-Line
• Designers: Tapio Wirkkala & Dorothy Hafner
• Series: Century: New Wave
• Country: Germany
• Years: Vase – 1989; Bowl – 1986
• Material: Glazed porcelain
• Vase: Height 22 cm · Width approx. 18 cm
• Bowl: Height 6.5 cm · Diameter 30 cm
• Markings: Both fully marked on base
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, or repairs. Only minimal wear consistent with age and careful use.
Why Collect This Set
This rare pairing represents a true design dialogue between modernist purity and postmodern exuberance. Hafner’s expressive surface meets Wirkkala’s sculptural discipline, resulting in a unified yet contrasting ensemble that is as suitable for display as for use. Ideal for collectors of:
• Rosenthal Studio-Line and 1980s porcelain
• Postmodern design and Memphis-inspired aesthetics
• Museum-worthy collaborative design from two acclaimed artists
General Information
Please explore my profile for more collectible Rosenthal Studio-Line pieces and vintage design objects.
International buyers are welcome — please contact me in advance for exact delivery costs outside the EU. Import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minor traces of age; any significant flaws will be clearly noted.
Private sale under German law: no returns, refunds, or warranties. Buyer data will be used exclusively to fulfill and ship the order.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsMint, Turquoise, Green, Multi Color, PinkMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2StyleVintageBrandRosenthalHeight22 cmWidth18 cmDepth18 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 20 sales