A beautiful, tall, blue relief décor vase designed by Herbert Reusch for Eckhardt & Engler. The form and décor are somewhat reminiscent of Stig Lindberg’s work for Gustavsberg.

ECKHARDT & ENGLER (1898-1971) was founded as a wholesale company in Höhr-Grenzhausen, Germany, by Ludwig Eckhardt (sometimes referred to as Peter Eckhardt) and his brother-in-law, Ernst Johann Engler (1867–1932). Initially trading in traditional stone beer jugs manufactured by other firms, such as Roßkopf & Gerz, it converted into a pewter foundry and then, in 1914, into a stoneware factory. In 1922, molds from a now bankrupt Roßkopf & Gerz were taken over by ECKHARDT & ENGLER, solidifying its position as a significant producer of beer steins.

After WWII, ECKHARDT & ENGLER (often styled as “E&E”) developed into one of the most important manufacturers of fine stoneware and decorative ceramics in Germany, with around 100 employees. The traditional program continued, and a line of vases and other items was introduced in the contemporary West German style and soon made up a considerable part of the production.

Without exception, the designs were made by Herbert Reusch (1918-1991), the owner’s son-in-law and grandson of one of the founders, and operations manager of the company. The collections, which changed relatively frequently, were presented at the industrial trade fairs in Hanover and sold by regional representatives through specialist dealers as well as through purchasing associations and department stores. The firm closed its doors in 1971. Several other ceramics companies acquired ECKHARDT & ENGLER’s molds, some of which are still in use today.

HERBERT REUSCH (1918-1991) was trained as a commercial ceramicist, but he always desired to pursue artistic instruction. When WWII ended, and he completed his military service, Reusch, the grandson of a company founder, joined the staff of ECKHARDT & ENGLER. He soon took over the commercial management of the company. A little later, he assumed leadership of the firm’s technical and artistic direction. He designed all of the décors in subsequent years, and, in collaboration with a modeler, he had a major influence on the shapes program.

DETAILS

Designer – HERBERT REUSCH

Design Period/Year – 1960s

Maker – ECKHARDT & ENGLER

Production Period/Year – 1960s

Origin – GERMANY

Styles/Movements – MID-CENTURY MODERN

Materials – STONEWARE

Colors – BLUE

Condition – Excellent vintage condition. May show minor signs of previous ownership and use.

Dimensions – 4 ½" DIAM. × 12" H