Pastel Papierporzellan Bowl – Johan van Loon for Rosenthal, 1981

A large porcelain bowl designed by Johan van Loon for Rosenthal Studio-Linie in 1981. Light in appearance yet technically complex, the piece reflects van Loon’s distinctive approach to Papierporzellan, where thinness, volume, and balance become central to the design. The softly irregular rim and fluid colour transition give the bowl a quiet sense of movement and depth.

• Dimensions: H 12.5 cm, Dia. 30 cm
• Material: Glossy porcelain
  
• Brand: Rosenthal Studio-Linie
  
• Designer: Johan van Loon
  
• Color: Pastel blue, pink, white
  
• Era: 1980s
  
• Origin: Germany
  
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; no chips, cracks, or repairs. Minimal traces consistent with careful handling.
  
• Remarks: Model 3702/30, very thin porcelain

This bowl has a particularly airy presence, almost like colour suspended in light. The pale blue and pink tones dissolve softly into the white porcelain, recalling dawn sky, sea haze, or the inside of a shell. Beautiful as a centrepiece on a dining table, low console, or open shelf, where its broad form can bring in a gentle wash of colour without feeling heavy.

Johan van Loon (1934–2019) was a Dutch ceramic and textile artist trained in textile design in Amsterdam, later turning to experimental ceramics. From 1980 onward he created sculptural, pleated and folded porcelain forms for Rosenthal in Selb, bringing a textile-like, architectural language into their Studio Line collections.

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.