Succumb to the raw power and graphic presence of this superb modernist "Fat Lava" vase, an iconic example of German ceramics from the 1960s/1970s. Distinguished by its generous and very stable proportions, it plays on a striking contrast between the brilliance of a tangerine orange enamel and the roughness of a wide belt of molten black lava. A strong and authentic mid-century piece.

Visual Impact: A Massive, Ultra-Designed "Ball" Format

This vase moves away from classic slender silhouettes to assert itself as a compact and sculptural block of material.

A Stocky and Generous Silhouette: Its double-shouldered shape combined with its width gives it a miniature, almost brutalist totem-like appearance, visually anchoring the space where it is placed.

The Fire of Enamel Against Volcanic Rock: The neck and base feature a lacquered, smooth, and intensely luminous bright orange enamel. Conversely, the central section is enveloped in a thick, cratered, and porous crust imitating cooled lava, revealing incandescent specks beneath its matte texture.

Remarkable Condition: Despite its fragility and half-century of history, this clay piece is in very good condition. The enamel has retained all its brilliance, and its volcanic texture shows no imperfections.

Features

The Great Return of Seventies Style: West Germany ceramics are at the heart of current decoration trends. Their rough and organic texture immediately adds depth and character to contemporary interiors.

An Easy-to-Place Format: Thanks to its height of 25 cm, it offers ideal versatility. Unlike giant vases, it fits perfectly on a coffee table, in the center of a dining table, or on a bookshelf shelf.

Technical Specifications

Origin: West Germany

Manufacturer: Attributed to Carstens Tönnieshof

Period: Circa 1960 - 1970

Style: Fat Lava / Mid-Century Modern / Brutalist

Materials: Ceramic, double glaze (smooth glossy enamel and textured volcanic enamel).

Condition: Very good overall condition (beautiful orange luster, impeccable texture).

Actual Dimensions: Height 25 cm for the small and 35 cm for the large

💡 Gallerist's Style Tip

“Due to its stocky format and generous diameter, this Fat Lava vase is ideally displayed at height. Place it in the center of a glass coffee table or on a light wood console to make its tangerine orange glow. To emphasize its vegetal and wild side, you can insert a beautiful succulent plant, a cactus, or simply leave it empty, like a geometric sculpture from the 70s.”