organic modernism in glass

At the beginning of his career, Wagenfeld designed mostly glassware: vases, cups, and lamps. These all epitomize so-called organic modernism, which champions smooth shapes paired with high functionality. The most famous creation of this era is a tea service from heat-resistant glass, which Wagenfeld designed with Czech graphic designer Ladislav Sutnar, as well as a blue vase of mouth-blown glass. Both were produced at the Schott & Gen. glassworks in Jena. In 1937, Wagenfeld received the Gold Medal at the International Exhibition of Paris for the vase.

 

Glass vases designed by Wilhelm Wagenfeld for the Württembergische Metallwaren Fabrik (WMF) in 1961. Photo: courtesy of Wilhelm Wagenfeld Stiftung.

Glass vases designed by Wilhelm Wagenfeld
Teapot designed by Wilhelm Wagenfeld

i consider artistic efficacy in our industries as a personal creative input that does not dissipate in some purportedly original items, but rather must recognize that an anonymous shape can be the perfection of an object. —wilhelm wagenfeld

Wilhelm Wagenfeld explains his award-winning glasses, vases, and cutlery

Wilhelm Wagenfeld explains award-winning glasses, vases, and cutlery, which he designed for the Württembergische Metallwaren Fabrik (WMF), 1965. Photo via Getty Images.

 

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