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Sculptural Art Pottery Vase Steuler Keramik x Heiner Balzar German Brutalism 70s
€199
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Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales
Product description
Sculptural Art Pottery Vase
Steuler Keramik
Design attributed to Heiner Balzar
Germany, 1960s–1970s
Height: 23 cm
Width: 23 cm
Material: Ceramic
Surface: Matte / satin volcanic glaze
Marked on base
Form & Presence
This substantial Steuler vase exemplifies the sculptural ambition that defined West German ceramics in the 1960s and 1970s.
The body reads as a compressed organic mass rising from a short circular foot. Its subtly asymmetrical shoulder and off-centre opening introduce dynamic tension, preventing the form from becoming purely geometric. The result is a vessel that feels shaped from stone rather than thrown on a wheel — compact, grounded, materially confident.
At 23 × 23 cm, the scale enhances its architectural authority.
Glaze & Surface
The surface is defined by a rich, matte volcanic glaze in deep brown with oxblood undertones and sand-coloured eruptions across the body. The transitions feel mineral and geological, recalling weathered rock formations.
The dark interior intensifies the contrast between outer dryness and inner depth — a characteristic strategy of expressive West German art pottery.
About the Designer – Heiner Balzar
Heiner Balzar was among the key designers associated with Steuler’s most sculptural period. Working during the height of West German “Kunstkeramik,” Balzar helped define a vocabulary that moved decisively away from decorative floral motifs toward architectural mass, expressive glazing, and abstract form.
Steuler, based in Höhr-Grenzhausen in the Westerwald ceramic region, became internationally recognised for its bold art pottery production. During the postwar decades, the company collaborated with designers who treated ceramics as sculptural media rather than mere utilitarian ware.
Balzar’s works are characterised by:
• Strong volumetric silhouettes
• Tactile, often volcanic glaze surfaces
• Asymmetry within controlled structure
• A dialogue between brutalist solidity and organic growth
Today, Steuler’s high-quality art pottery has become increasingly sought after among collectors of West German modern design.
Design Context
This piece reflects the broader movement of 1960s–70s German ceramic modernism — a period in which factories such as Steuler, Scheurich, Bay, and Carstens explored sculptural abstraction and material experimentation.
Unlike purely industrial serial production, works like this carry a studio-like intensity within a factory context — a hybrid position that defines the best West German pottery of the era.
Condition
Very good vintage condition.
No cracks or restorations observed.
Minor glaze and firing variations consistent with production technique.
Why This Piece Matters
• Sculptural 23 × 23 cm scale
• Expressive volcanic matte glaze
• Attributed to Heiner Balzar
• Authentic West German art pottery
• Strong presence in minimalist, brutalist, or 1970s interiors
A serious ceramic object — not decorative filler.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Please explore our profile for more vintage vases and collectible ceramic art objects.
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.
Private sale under law: no returns, refunds, or warranties.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBrownMaterialCeramicNumber of items1Height24 cmWidth23 cmDepth10 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Berlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales