Geometric flower vase by Josef Hoffmann

Josef Hoffman’s work, embodies the changes in design at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Born in 1870 the Austrian-Moravian architect and designers career consists of diverse and extensive production of architectural designs as well as furniture and smaller household items. In addition to his creative work, he is known for being one of the founders of Vienna Secession, an avant-garde group closely related to Art Nouveau, as well as one the founders of Wiener Werkstätte 1903, a Viannese association to elevate the role of craftsmanship and artistic inspiration. Wiener Wekstätte is regarded as a pioneer of modern design, and its influence can be seen in the following styles, such as Bauhaus and Art Deco.

Hoffmann studied architecture in the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and was inspired by functional and modernist architecture. His most famous architectural design is the Palais Stoclet in Brussels built in 1905-1911. Over the years his works developed from Vienna Secessions to later pioneering use of geometric and abstract design. Hoffmann designed among other things, the well-known Kubus Armchair, famous for its quadratic theme and Rundes Modell cutlery set, manufactured by Alessi. He designed a wide variety of items for the Wiener Werkstätte including the “Blumenkörbchen” vase. Hoffmann’s constant use of squares and cubes earned him the nickname “Quadratl-Hoffmann” (“Square Hoffmann”).

“Blumenkörbchen”, model S768

Designed for Wiener Werkstätte and manufactured in Austria around 1905, the “Blumenkörbchen” (flower basket) vase, model S768, is made of metal in a bent rectangular shape. The sides and the handle have small square perforations forming a larger pattern, and the vase has a circular hole in the bottom. The vase is approximately 26 cm tall and 7 cm wide. On the bottom you can find a monogram “Wiener Werkstätte & D. Entwerfer”.

Browse the lot HERE.

Design Auction Helander 16 February – 3 March 2024.