Walter Bosse Footed Pipe Rest
A sculptural brass pipe rest designed by Walter Bosse and handmade c.1950 in Vienna, Austria, at the Herta Baller workshop.
The diverse artistic talents of Walter Bosse are easily legible when delving deeper into his portfolio of work; best known for his endearing 'black-golden' line of patinated brass animals, he also designed a number of sculptural household items such as trays, dishes and pipe rests with a fluid, organic shape. These items exemplify the sophistication of Viennese Postwar design.
This decorative footed pipe rest is a refined example of mid-20th-century Organic Modernism, distinguished by its naturalistic form and perfectly balanced proportions. The bowl's shape evokes a flower petal or an ancient clay oil lamp, and blends these references with modernist style & simplicity. Its flowing rim has been polished to a golden shine, creating a striking contrast against the black-patinated surface. Inside, a lightly hammered texture adds depth, and enhances the objects handmade quality.
The piece stands on three tapered feet which contribute to the sculptural & highly decorative nature of this design.
Organic Modernism was a European design movement that developed during the late 1940's. Taking inspiration from nature, designers abstracted its fluidity & curvatures to create sleek & naturalistic objects for the home. These principles were applied to all areas of design such as glass, wood, and metal, and laid the foundations for the wider Mid-Century Modern aesthetic.
Designer: Walter Bosse
Manufacturer: Herta Baller
Year of Design: C. 1950
Dates Produced: C. 1950-55
Colour: Black, Gold
Height: 5 cm, Depth: 8 cm Width: 5.5 cm
Condition: Very good, some small dents to rim.
Branding: Marked "Baller Austria"