Vibrations Porcelain Vase Duo – Dieter Mankau for Rosenthal, 1970s–1980s

Rosenthal Studio-Line vase duo from Dieter Mankau’s Vibrations series, pairing a tall silver porcelain vase with a smaller white version of the same relief design. The repeating crater-like surface gives both pieces a sense of movement, while the silver finish reflects light sharply and the white glaze makes the pattern read through shadow and depth.

• Dimensions:
  
  • Silver vase: H 32 cm, Dia. 11 cm
    
  • White vase: H 25.5 cm, Dia. 8.5 cm
• Material: Porcelain
  
• Brand: Rosenthal
  
• Designer: Dieter Mankau
  
• Color: Silver and white
  
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; minimal signs of age and use; no chips, cracks, or repairs
  
• Era: 1970s–1980s
  
• Origin: Germany
  
• Remarks: Set of two; larger vase in original packaging

This duo suits a more edited interior: think a charcoal or off-white wall, one low cabinet, and enough negative space for the surfaces to catch the light. Place the silver piece slightly behind or beside the white one rather than perfectly aligned, and skip flowers altogether - the forms are already doing the visual work.

Dieter Mankau (b. 1941) is a German designer known for treating surface as an active visual field rather than simple decoration. His Vibrations designs for Rosenthal, first developed in 1972, use relief to create rhythm, movement, and a distinctly graphic energy, giving porcelain a more optical and sculptural character.

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.