This Karl Ens Art Nouveau vase, produced in Volkstedt, Germany between 1900 and 1910, represents one of the finest sculptural expressions of Jugendstil porcelain. The important piece exemplifies the period’s fusion of symbolic figuration and organic, nature-inspired design.
The vessel is conceived as a relief sculpture: an idealized young maiden appears alongside a winged cherub—an allegorical motif frequently found in early 20th-century European iconography. Their figures emerge seamlessly from the flowing contours of the vase, enriched with applied floral motifs, stylized leaves, and sinuous lines typical of Art Nouveau. The surface is entirely hand-painted in soft pastels with selective gilding that accentuates the modelling and highlights the ornamental details.
On the underside, the base bears the early impressed KVE mark (Karl Ens, Volkstedt), used in the first decades after the manufactory’s separation from Sitzendorf—an attribute sought after by collectors of Karl Ens Art Nouveau vases.
Condition: the cherub’s head has received a professional restoration. The intervention is discreet and structurally sound, with no impact on the piece’s overall decorative presence or display value.
Dimensions
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Height: 40 cm (15.75 in)
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Diameter: 23 cm (9 in)
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Approx. weight: 2.3 kg (5 lbs)
A paradigmatic example of German Jugendstil porcelain that merges sculptural virtuosity with functional form. This Karl Ens Art Nouveau vase will make an outstanding addition to refined interiors, historicist décors, or curated collections of European decorative arts.
Certificate of Authenticity: The piece is delivered with a Certificate of Authenticity issued by Strana & Antic, guaranteeing originality, period, and material
