Bisque Porcelain Vase Duo – James Kirkwood for Rosenthal, 1980s

Petit black-and-white vase duo in matte bisque porcelain by James Kirkwood for Rosenthal Studio-Line, each with a heel-like silhouette that nods subtly to high fashion. The soft, unglazed surface and clear graphic contrast give the pair a refined mid-century minimal feel with a touch of 1970s attitude.

• Dimensions: H 12 cm, W 10 cm, D 8 cm (each)
• Material: Bisque porcelain, matte unglazed exterior
• Brand: Rosenthal
• Designer: James Kirkwood
• Color: white & black
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; no chips, cracks or discoloration, clean matte surfaces
• Era: 1980s, white vase mark dates back to 1983 
• Origin: Germany
• Remarks: Marked to base with Rosenthal and model number 3721/12

Best on a smaller stage rather than a big sideboard: style the duo on a tray, a stack of books or a narrow shelf where they won’t disappear. The black–white contrast and the curved silhouettes become a neat little exclamation mark in the room.

James Kirkwood (born 1943) is a British designer who has worked with Rosenthal since 1972, contributing to the brand’s modern Studio-Line language. Best known for developing the “Tea for Two” ceramic tea set and for distinctive vase designs with graphic, relief-led forms (often seen in matte bisque or black “Porcelaine Noire”), his pieces remain popular with design collectors.

Rosenthal, founded in 1879 in Selb, Bavaria, is one of Germany’s most important porcelain manufacturers, recognised for combining industrial production with high design standards. With its Studio-Linie programme from the 1960s onwards, Rosenthal invited international artists and designers to create avant-garde forms and décors, making pieces like this set both functional objects and design collectibles.