Höhr-Grenzhausen & Friedrichroda Artisan Studios - Wendelin Stahl & Johannes Andreas Urban - Vase (2) - Curated Duo - East & West German Pottery - Ceramic - Postwar Masterful MCM

Unique East & West German Pottery Pair – Studio Vases by Wendelin Stahl & Johannes Andreas Urban

This curated duo presents two exceptional examples of German mid-century studio ceramics, uniting the artistry of both East and West Germany. Together, these vases by Wendelin Stahl (Höhr-Grenzhausen, West Germany) and Johannes Andreas Urban (Friedrichroda, East Germany) reflect the parallel evolution of modern ceramic expression on both sides of the postwar divide.

Vase 1: Wendelin Stahl
A striking 1960s studio vase with a crystalline glaze in hues of light brown, green, and ash-grey. The surface exhibits Stahl’s masterful control of kiln chemistry and glaze crystallization, resulting in a rich, organic pattern with great visual depth.
Dimensions: Height 20 cm, Width 11 cm
Condition: Excellent vintage condition, no chips or cracks

Wendelin Stahl (1922–2000) was one of the foremost West German studio potters. Trained in Höhr-Grenzhausen, he co-founded a workshop at Burg Coraidelstein in Klotten/Mosel with Else Harney in 1952. His innovative glazes and modernist vessel forms earned him the 1977 “Deutsche Keramik Westerwaldpreis.” Stahl’s works are held in major collections and remain benchmarks of 20th-century German ceramics.

Vase 2: Johannes Andreas Urban
An early 1950s East German vase featuring a richly fired glaze that transitions from deep red to turquoise green, recalling the expressive surfaces of Paul Dresler’s prewar ceramics.
Dimensions: Height 20 cm, Width 9 cm
Condition: Good, with minor surface wear consistent with age

Johannes Andreas Urban (1919–2020) was one of the defining figures of East German studio pottery. Trained in Landshut, he opened his workshop in Friedrichroda in 1954 and worked there until 1989. His ceramics bridge Bauhaus clarity and rustic expressiveness, embodying the spirit of early GDR craftsmanship and design experimentation.

Together, these two works form a dialogue between two ceramic traditions—East and West—each exploring texture, glaze chemistry, and form within the constraints and possibilities of their time. The pair makes a refined addition to any collection of modern European ceramics or mid-century decorative arts.

Condition
Both vases in very good vintage condition with minor signs of age. No chips, cracks, or restorations noted.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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Questions are welcome and will be answered promptly.

International buyers are welcome! Any import duties or taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.

I strive to describe all items as accurately and honestly as possible, including detailed photos of the actual items for sale. However, please be aware that descriptions can be subjective. Vintage or pre-owned items often show signs of wear due to age, and while I make every effort to identify and note any significant flaws, some minor imperfections may be overlooked.

Naturally occurring manufacturer’s defects, slight surface scratching, or wear consistent with normal use may be present.

Any condition beyond typical vintage wear, such as chips, cracks, or other significant defects, will be clearly noted in the description and visible in the photos.

Important Notice: This transaction is between a private seller and a private buyer of secondhand items. No refunds, returns, or warranties are accepted or provided, in accordance with German law. By purchasing, you agree to these terms.