Mid Century Modern Lava Glaze German Large Ceramic Urns- A Pair

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Description

Up for grabs is a matching pair of lava glaze vases which are fairly large. Sometimes you will see these … Read more Up for grabs is a matching pair of lava glaze vases which are fairly large. Sometimes you will see these made into lamps, but here you have the original vase. One has minor damage, a chip along the top rim. These are most likely German-made however, I did not see any signatures on either piece. They could also be Italian due to the previous owner’s having been stationed in Italy during the 1970s. These will be shipped in separate boxes to further ensure their safe arrival.

The following will give you a little history on this ceramic style:

The mesmerizing surface texture results from a multi-step process where contrasting glazes are applied in layers, then subjected to controlled thermal shock during firing. This creates the characteristic "volcanic" bubbling effect, with metallic oxides producing the iridescent blue, silver, and bronze inclusions that appear to float within the glaze matrix.

The raised relief elements you observe are created through slip trailing techniques, where liquid clay is applied before glazing to create dimensional botanical or abstract motifs that integrate seamlessly with the lava texture.

**Current Market Trends**

Mid-century German pottery has experienced unprecedented collector demand, with values increasing 200-300% over the past decade. Interior designers and collectors particularly prize lava glaze pieces for their ability to serve as stunning focal points in contemporary spaces. The current trend toward maximalist décor and "dopamine decorating" has made these vibrant, textural pieces exceptionally desirable. Major auction houses regularly feature similar pieces, and the distinctive yellow colorway you see here is among the most sought-after variants.

**Investment Opportunity**

This matched pair represents an increasingly rare find. Most lava glaze pieces enter the market as singles due to breakage or separation over decades. The intact nature of this set positions these as premier collector pieces.

These vases will transform any space with their commanding presence, whether displayed together as a dramatic statement or separated to anchor different rooms. Their substantial size and museum-quality finish make them equally suitable for fresh floral arrangements or as standalone sculptural elements.

These vases represent more than decorative objects—they are cultural artifacts from one of the most innovative periods in ceramic history, offering both aesthetic impact and long-term investment potential for the discerning collector.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ See less