Bay Keramik ceramic vase with floral relief, burgundy glaze, Germany, 1970s

Ceramic vase by Bay Keramik from the 1970s, a distinctive example of West German decorative ceramics from this period. The Ransbach-Baumbach manufactory, established in the 1930s, was among the producers who gave post-war German ceramics its recognizable, expressive character. This piece combines an organic form with an intense burgundy glaze and raised botanical relief. The tall, slender body widens gently toward the top, creating a dynamic silhouette with carefully considered proportions. A stylized plant motif in relief covers the surface, adding depth and textural variety to the ceramic. The dense, subtly glossy burgundy glaze pools darker in the recesses, emphasizing the three-dimensional quality of the decoration. The base bears the signature BAY W.GERMANY 942-45, confirming the origin and mold number. Bay Keramik belongs to the tradition of West German art ceramics that gained international recognition during the 1960s and 1970s. The Westerwald region, home to the manufactory, had been renowned for pottery making for centuries. The post-war economic boom enabled local workshops to scale up production while maintaining artisanal quality. Ceramics from this era, now commonly referred to as Fat Lava, became synonymous with the bold interior aesthetics of the time. Standing forty-four centimeters tall, this vase works as a standalone decorative object requiring neither flowers nor additional styling. The rich colour and pronounced texture draw attention, making it a natural focal point on a sideboard, shelf, or in a display cabinet. Condition is good with no significant flaws. The ceramic retains its full colour intensity and undamaged glaze surface.