Mid-Century German Studio Ceramic "Flying Saucer" Vase / Planter

This striking mid-century German ceramic pot showcases the iconic "flying saucer" geometric profile highly prized by collectors of modernist studio pottery. Dating from the circa 1960s/1970s Fat Lava era, this West German ceramic vessel beautifully balances a sleek modernist form with an incredibly tactile, dual-texture glaze. Its substantial low-slung presence and vibrant two-tone finish make it an exceptional standout sculptural statement piece for contemporary interiors.

• Item: Studio Ceramic Vase / Planter

• Date: c. 1960 – 1970

• Origin: Germany (West Germany)

• Style: Mid-Century Modern / Fat Lava Era

• Material: Earthenware / Ceramic

• Key Features: Distinctive oblate spheroid "UFO" shape; two-tone glaze featuring a smooth, satin-matte cobalt blue top and a heavily textured, frothy white volcanic lava base.

• Provenance: From a private collection.

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks, or restoration; light wear to the unglazed base ring consistent with age.

• Measurements: 17 cm (Height) × 28 cm (Diameter)

Provenance

From a private collection.

Description

This mid-century German studio ceramic pot dates to the circa 1960s–1970s Fat Lava era and captures the quintessential space-age aesthetic of the period. Crafted from durable earthenware, the vessel is defined by its dramatic, low-slung oblate spheroid profile, a form frequently sought after by enthusiasts as a "flying saucer" or "UFO" vase.

The decorative character of the piece relies on a brilliant contrast of color and texture. The upper two-thirds of the rounded shoulders are enveloped in a smooth, satin-matte cobalt blue glaze that accentuates the clean lines of the pottery before tapering into a crisp, narrow rim opening. In a stunning stylistic counterpoint, the lower third features a thick, heavily textured frothy white volcanic glaze. This tactile glaze wraps neatly around the underside, creating a stark visual border that enhances the vessel's floating, aerodynamic appearance.

The underside features an unglazed base ring showing the natural pale clay body, typical of mid-century West German manufacturing. Free from distracting handles or busy patterns, the purity of the geometric form combined with the organic, bubbling texture of the volcanic glaze makes this a highly commercial and desirable example of vintage European art pottery. It offers immense decorative appeal, whether displayed as an independent work of minimalist sculpture or styled with simple mid-century botanicals.