Koloman Moser

Estimate

6,000 - 9,000 GBP

bidding is closed

Description

A pair of vases, model number S 356
each stamped with designer's monogram, WW monogram, and trademark
20.2cm. high;
8in.

silver coloured metal, the pierced stems on a domed circular foot with beaded edging

Literature

Gabriele Fahr-Becker, Wiener Werkstätte, Cologne, 1995, p. 154;

Oswald Oberhuber, Julius Hummel, Koloman Moser, 1868 - 1918, exhibition catalogue, Hochschule für Angewandte Kunst in Wien, 18th May - 15th July 1979, p. 133, cat. no. 136b.

Catalogue Note

The silver workshop of the Wiener Werkstätte was established in 1902. Each piece was hand made by the actual designer, which was unusual in an age that celebrated the machine. Despite their geometric and therefore rigid look the piece were intended to be seen in context of their use. A vase such as in this lot was only complete with a flower, a basket only with a plant, a cruet set only with the amber colours shining through the pierced squares. As Nikolaus Pevsner puts it: 'This is a decorative effect achieved purely with the characteristics of the object itself, without any additions, created so obviously and naturally by its own means and hence so extraordinarily convincing.' (Fahr-Becker, op. cit. p. 156)