Vintage Red and Grey Vase - Carstens 1518-23 "Austria" - 1960s

Carstens Tönnieshof was a well-known German pottery company, established in the mid-20th century and primarily associated with West German ceramics. The company was founded by Christian Heinrich Carstens and initially operated under the name "Carstens-Uffrecht." However, it wasn't until the post-war period, around the 1950s and 1960s, that Carstens Tönnieshof truly rose to prominence, producing a wide range of decorative ceramics that have become iconic pieces in mid-century design.

The company’s work is often characterised by bold, experimental forms, vibrant glazes, and unique, textured finishes. Many of their pieces, like other West German ceramics of the time, fall under the "Fat Lava" style, which became incredibly popular during the 1960s and 1970s. These designs often featured thick, volcanic-like glazes, with rich colour palettes and rugged surfaces, giving the pieces a distinctive and dramatic appearance.

Carstens Tönnieshof produced a variety of items, from vases to decorative tableware, and was renowned for their innovative use of form and glaze, often pushing the boundaries of conventional ceramic design. Today, Carstens' work is highly collectible, and their pieces remain a hallmark of mid-century modern German pottery, valued for both their aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship.