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XL Manfred Frey Kaiser Bisque Porcelain Vase Crocodile Reptile Relief Op-Art Duo
€450Bid from €360
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About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales
Product description
Mid-Century Modernist AK Kaiser Biscuit Porcelain Vase Duo – Crocodile Relief Design by Manfred Frey, Germany, 1970s
(We have two similar vases, the price indicated is for the pair of vases. You may purchase one, contact us via direct message)
A striking example of 1970s German modernism, this sculptural porcelain vase by AK Kaiser embodies the tactile sophistication of Manfred Frey’s design language. Frey’s signature *crocodile relief* texture transforms the minimalist silhouette into a conversation between nature and geometry — a hallmark of the decade’s *brutalist-organic* aesthetics.
Executed in biscuit porcelain, the vase retains a matte, velvety surface that accentuates every detail of the reptilian pattern while maintaining a refined purity of form. The result is a work that feels both timeless and daring — a perfect embodiment of the era when German porcelain design broke away from traditional florals into sculptural modernism.
Product Details
* Manufacturer: Alboth & Kaiser (“AK Kaiser”), Staffelstein, Germany
* Designer: *Manfred Frey* — celebrated for his textured, nature-inspired surface designs
* Period: 1970s
* Material: Unglazed *biscuit porcelain*
* Colour: Matte white
* Pattern: Crocodile-relief texture
* Model: Form 306
* Dimensions: Height 28 cm; Diameter ≈ 10 cm
* Markings: Impressed AK Kaiser mark on the base
* Condition: Excellent vintage condition — no chips, cracks, or repairs. The unglazed surface remains clean, and the relief is crisp and intact.
Design & Aesthetic
The crocodile-relief motif merges *nature’s irregular rhythm* with the *precision of industrial modernism*. The contrast of raw texture against a perfectly cylindrical shape gives the vase its sculptural strength. Whether displayed alone or as part of a porcelain collection, it functions as both vessel and object d’art.
The biscuit finish, devoid of glaze, allows light to play delicately across the raised texture — an effect both architectural and sensuous.
About AK Kaiser
Founded in 1872 in Staffelstein, Bavaria, AK Kaiser was among the most forward-thinking porcelain manufacturers of the post-war period. Under designers like Manfred Frey, the company became known for its avant-garde surface treatments and restrained modernist forms. This vase represents that fruitful intersection of craftsmanship, material innovation, and design experimentation.
Why Collect This Piece
* A genuine mid-century modernist design by one of Germany’s notable porcelain houses
* Frey’s crocodile relief pattern is rare and emblematic of the 1970s tactile design revolution
* Excellent condition — beautifully preserved matte biscuit finish
* Versatile décor piece: Works equally well in minimalist, brutalist, or eclectic interiors
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General Information
Questions are welcome and will be answered promptly.
International buyers are invited — please inquire for accurate shipping quotes outside the EU. Import duties or taxes, if any, remain the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are described as accurately as possible, with photographs of the actual piece offered. Vintage and pre-owned objects may show light wear consistent with age and handling. Significant flaws will always be mentioned and visible in the images.
If purchasing multiple items, please contact me to confirm whether combined shipping is possible.
Important Notice: This sale is between private individuals. Returns, refunds, and warranties are excluded in accordance with German law.
Privacy Notice: Buyer data will be used solely for order fulfilment and shipment coordination.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsWhiteMaterialPorcelainNumber of items2StyleVintageHeight28 cmWidth10 cmDepth10 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 23 sales