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Scheurich "Wien" Floor Vase, Model 269-53 – Monumental Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Vase, West Germany, 1970s
€450Bid from €390
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Scheurich "Wien" Floor Vase, Model 269-53 – Monumental Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Vase, West Germany, 1970s
An impressive and highly decorative floor vase from Scheurich Keramik's celebrated "Wien" series, one of the manufacturer's most successful and enduring design programs of the 1970s. Standing at an imposing 52.5 cm, this large-scale vessel combines architectural presence with the rich glaze experimentation that made West German pottery internationally sought after.
The vase features the iconic Model 269 form, distinguished by its generous bulbous lower body rising into a dramatically stepped and ringed neck. The sculptural silhouette creates a strong vertical rhythm, recalling both classical column forms and the futuristic aesthetics that characterised much European design during the Space Age era.
Its striking cobalt and powder-blue glaze is among the vase's most captivating features. A finely mottled, almost volcanic surface texture creates remarkable visual depth, with darker cobalt tones emerging through lighter blue layers. The result evokes mineral formations, weathered stone, or atmospheric cloud patterns, giving the piece a rich tactile quality despite its restrained monochromatic palette.
The original Scheurich foil label remains present, and the base bears the impressed model number 269-53, confirming the form and size designation.
Design & Historical Context
Founded in 1928 and becoming one of Europe's largest ceramic manufacturers during the post-war decades, Scheurich played a central role in the international success of West German pottery.
The "Wien" series emerged during the late 1960s and 1970s, a period when German ceramic manufacturers increasingly embraced sculptural forms and experimental glazes. Unlike the dramatic Fat Lava wares for which Scheurich is perhaps best known, the Wien series focused on architectural silhouettes and sophisticated monochromatic surfaces, making it particularly appealing to modernist interiors.
The model's stacked-ring neck demonstrates the era's fascination with geometry, repetition, and sculptural volume while remaining highly functional as a vessel.
Dimensions
Height: 52.5 cm
Diameter: approx. 27 cm
Material
Glazed ceramic
Brand
Scheurich Keramik
Series
Wien
Model
269-53
Color
Mottled cobalt and powder blue
Era
1970s
Origin
West Germany
Condition
Very good vintage condition with original Scheurich label still present. No cracks, chips, or repairs observed. Minor signs of age and manufacturing variations consistent with vintage West German pottery.
Placement Suggestions
Its substantial scale makes this vase particularly effective as a floor-standing statement piece. It works beautifully beside a sofa, fireplace, sideboard, or large window, and pairs especially well with contemporary, Scandinavian, mid-century modern, or brutalist interiors.
Equally striking displayed empty as a sculptural object or filled with tall branches, dried grasses, or architectural floral arrangements.
Collector's Note
Large examples of the Wien series have become increasingly desirable among collectors of West German pottery. The combination of monumental scale, original label, excellent condition, and one of Scheurich's most attractive blue glazes makes this a particularly appealing example of the period.
General Information
Please explore our profile for more vintage vases!
International buyers: import 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.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBlueMaterialCeramicNumber of items1BrandScheurich W-GermanyHeight52 cmWidth27 cmDepth27 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales