Porcelain Vase Duo “UFO” – Werner Uhl for Rosenthal, 1970s–1990s

Iconic Werner Uhl “UFO” vase duo for Rosenthal Studio Linie, pairing a deep matte black version with a glossy white variant of the same flying-saucer form. The contrast of finish and colour turns this set into a clean, space-age study in light, shadow and proportion.

• Dimensions:
  • Glossy white vase: H 16 cm, Dia 21 cm
  • Matte black vase: H 13 cm, Dia 16 cm
• Material: Porcelain
• Brand: Rosenthal
• Designer: Werner Uhl
• Color: Matte black, Glossy white
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; no chips, cracks or repairs, minimal age-appropriate wear
• Era: 1970s–1990s
• Origin: Germany
  

Perfect for a low sideboard, media unit or console where they can sit slightly off-centre as a small monochrome “landing zone”: place the larger white vase closer to a light source so it catches reflections and let the black one sit just in front or beside it, perhaps on a slim tray with a candle or two. 

Werner Uhl is credited with a striking group of West German bisque-porcelain vases made for Scherzer Bavaria, defined by crisp Op-Art geometry and sculptural relief. Typically executed in matte, unglazed white, these pieces turn repetitive patterns into architectural forms and are now popular collector items; his name is also often associated with Rosenthal studio-line vases (frequently listed as “Pisa”).

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.