Kunsttöpferei Unterstab (KTU) - Ralf & Gudrun Unterstab - Vase - East German Pottery - Ceramic - GDR DDR Studio Ceramic

Mid-Century East German Pottery – KTU Vase Duo by Ralf & Gudrun Unterstab

This striking vase duo, created by Ralf and Gudrun Unterstab of Kunsttöpferei Unterstab (KTU) in Langenhessen, represents an important chapter in East German mid-century ceramics. Crafted in the 1960s, the pair exemplifies the balance of sculptural form and sophisticated glaze work that defined the studio’s production.

Background & Craftsmanship
Kunsttöpferei Unterstab was founded by husband-and-wife team Ralf (b. 1937) and Gudrun Unterstab (b. 1940), both trained within the strong tradition of East German studio pottery. Gudrun was the daughter of master ceramist Albert Kiessling, whose technical and artistic innovations left a profound mark on 20th-century German ceramics. His influence—particularly in the development of expressive glazes—can be clearly felt in the Unterstabs’ work. Pieces from their atelier are now held in private collections and increasingly recognized for their craftsmanship and individuality.

Design & Glaze
The two vases demonstrate the tactile and visual language characteristic of KTU. Their cratered relief surfaces evoke volcanic textures, enhanced by carefully controlled glaze reactions that lend a sense of depth and motion. One vase features earthy brown tones with subtle metallic accents; the other contrasts in a pale, speckled white glaze with dark inclusions. Their rounded bodies taper into narrow necks, achieving both balance and sculptural tension. These forms, though modest in scale, command attention through their organic rhythm and surface vitality.

Historical Context
In postwar East Germany, potters like the Unterstabs sought new aesthetic directions while maintaining the artisanal integrity of hand-thrown ceramics. Their work bridges traditional craftsmanship and modernist experimentation—a quiet resistance to the industrial uniformity of the era. Today, their ceramics are regarded as emblematic of East German design’s artistic resilience and depth.

Dimensions (approx.):
Height 15 cm each
Diameter 10 cm each
Opening diameter 2 cm each

Condition:
Both vases are in very good vintage condition, with only light wear consistent with age and use. No chips, cracks, or restorations. The glazes remain vivid and intact.

Collectible Significance
These vases are fine examples of mid-century East German studio pottery—distinct for their authentic handcraft, tactile glaze chemistry, and sculptural presence. Their connection to Albert Kiessling’s legacy adds historical and artistic value. Perfect for collectors of European ceramics or admirers of modernist craft, the duo combines intimacy of scale with depth of artistry.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

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