While the Rosenthal Porcelain Factory grew from humble decorating roots — as many pottery companies do — it eventually built a list of universally revered designer and artist partners that included Andy Warhol and Salvador Dalí. And after securing an enviable position as a top manufacturer of serveware and dominating the porcelain and bone china markets, Rosenthal expanded into furniture production, working with influential designers Verner Panton, Luigi Colani and Günther Ferdinand Ris and Herbert Selldorf.
German-born Jewish businessman Philipp Rosenthal founded the company in 1879 in Bavaria. It began as his modest workshop where he painted porcelain and encountered success with porcelain ashtrays. Rosenthal hired the best designers and clay modelers he could find. Adolf Oppel designed figurative Art Nouveau pieces, while Eleonore (Lore) Friedrich-Gronau produced decorative objects, namely her graceful porcelain dancer figurines, for the company.
Dinnerware, though, would be a Rosenthal mainstay. Between 1904 and 1910, Rosenthal produced its renowned dinnerware lines such as Donatello, Darmstadt and Isolde. These were introduced as unornamented white pieces — only later were they given their underglaze designs.
Rosenthal founder Philipp, a Catholic of Jewish ancestry, resigned in 1934 as the company’s president due to pressures owing to discriminatory German laws that took shape during the rise of the Nazi regime. Rosenthal died in 1937, and the family fled to America. The company would not regain its footing until 1950 when Rosenthal’s son, Philip, joined the firm and, in 1958, became chairman and dubbed Germany’s “China King.” At its peak, the company had 10,000 employees.
In the 1950s, Rosenthal’s modernist dinnerware was a significant part of the brand’s offerings, and by 1961 they introduced the famed Rosenthal Studio Line. Although furniture designers and ceramicists would lead the list of individuals working with Rosenthal — among them Tapio Wirkkala, Max Weber and Lisa Larson — the company eventually reached out to fine artists, not only Dalí and Warhol but Sandro Chia and Kenny Scharf. Rosenthal also collaborated with fashion designers Gianni Versace and Donatella Versace.
In a daring move in 1972, the company diversified into furniture, collaborating with some of the giants of mid-century modern design. The revolutionary Sunball chair, an icon of Space Age seating crafted by Selldorf and Ris, was among Rosenthal’s stellar successes in this venture.
On 1stDibs, find vintage Rosenthal ceramics, porcelain, tableware, seating and more.
Rosenthal Porcelain Angel Candlestick After Andy Warhol, Circa 1980
By (after) Andy Warhol, Rosenthal
Located in Lille, FR
Porcelaine Angel Christmas Candlestick after Andy Warhol by Rosenthal, 1980s
Porcelain
$187Sale Price|25% Off
Pair of Studio Line Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal, 1970s
By Rosenthal, Bjorn Wiinblad
Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Pair of Studio Line Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal, Germany, 1970s. Makers mark to the bottom of each example.
Glass
$140Sale Price|20% Off
Studio Line Vase by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
Floral motif Studio Line vase by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal, circa 1970s. The vase is signed by Danish artist-cum-designer Bjorn Wiinbla...
Porcelain
Rare pair Bjorn Wiinblad ceramic Mermaid Candlesticks
By Rosenthal, Bijorn Winblad
Located in London, GB
Pair ceramic candlestick holders by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal. c1970 Whimsical style mermaid candleholders.
Ceramic
Vintage Rosenthal Porcelain Candelabra Germany
By Rosenthal
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Striking mid-century modern four-arm candelabra crafted in white porcelain with rich gilt detailing. Rosenthal, Germany, this sculptural candleholder features elegant curved arms, go...
Porcelain
$300Sale Price|20% Off
Pompadour Porcelain Vase by Selb Rosenthal, Rare "US Zone"
By Rosenthal, Selb Porcelain
Located in San Diego, CA
A very nice and rare "Pompadour" line porcelain vase by Selb / Rosenthal with a rare "US Zone" marking, circa late 1940s. The vase is in very good vintage condition with no chips or ...
Porcelain
Pair of Studio-Line Angel Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
A pair of mid-century abstract angel-shaped candlesticks by Danish artist-cum-designer Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal of Germany as part of their extensive artist-led Studio Line serie...
Glass
Bjorn Wiinblad White Porcelain Candlesticks for Rosenthal, Germany, 20th Century
By Rosenthal, Bjorn Wiinblad
Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Bjorn Wiinblad White Porcelain Candlesticks for Rosenthal, Germany, 20th Century
Porcelain
Set of Four Studio-Line Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Madonna
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
Set of four candlesticks of Madonna and baby Jesus with the three wise men by Danish artist-cum-designer Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal of Germany as part of their extensive artist-led...
Glass
Postmodern Glass Candleholder from Rosenthal Studio Line, 1980s
By Rosenthal
Located in Hamburg, DE
Postmodern Glass Candleholder from Rosenthal Studio Line, 1980s, in Very Good conditions. Designed 1980 to 1989 This piece has an attribution mark. Additional information: Materials...
Glass
Rosenthal ‘Romance’ Crystal Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in Palm Springs, CA
Rosenthal ‘Romance’ Crystal candleholders designed by Bjorn Wiinblad. They are in good vintage condition with minor wear consistent with age. Meas...
Crystal
Nanny Still McKinney for Rosenthal Studio-Line -NOS- Glass Candle Holder in Box
By Nanny Still McKinney, Rosenthal
Located in St. Louis, MO
Famed designer Nanny Still McKinney (1926–2009) for Rosenthal Studio-Line single glass crystal "Arabesque" candle holder in original box, unused. Mid-Century Modern. McKinney was a ...
Crystal
Bjørn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Studio-Line -NOS- Pair of Glass Candle Holders
By Rosenthal, Bjørn Wiinblad
Located in St. Louis, MO
Bjørn Wiinblad for ROSENTHAL Germany studio-line, pair of candle stick holders "Form without a name". Candle holders are made of textured glass, comes with original candles and box. ...
Glass
$169Sale Price / set|26% Off
Vintage Pair of Dorothy Hafner for Rosenthal Flash Candlestick Holders
By Rosenthal, Dorothy Hafner
Located in Amityville, NY
Vintage pair of Dorothy Hafner of "Flash" ceramic candlestick holders by Dorothy Hafner for Rosenthal Studio Line. Originally sold as part of a larger set of dinnerware and tableware...
Ceramic
Vintage Gilbert Portanier Rosenthal Liguria Candlestick
By Rosenthal
Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire
A stunning post modern Rosenthal Studio-Linie porcelain candlestick designed and signed by acclaimed French artist Gilbert Portanier (b. 1926) decorated in abstract designs in the Liguria pattern and dating from around 1980. The conical shaped candlestick is of simple hollowed out form and of funnel shape with the raised narrow top forming the candle holder. The candlestick is decorated with abstract designs in lustre colors with gilding on a matt dark lilac blue ground and is signed within the design. With printed makers...
Porcelain
$380Sale Price|20% Off
Studio-Line Vita Grooved Vase by Johann Van Loon for Rosenthal
By Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
Stylish and rare Studio-Line vita grooved vase by Johann van Loon for Rosenthal, circa 1970s. The vase is made of white porcelain with a matte finish a...
Porcelain
$260Sale Price|20% Off
Studio Line Pillow Vase by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal
By Rosenthal, Bjørn Wiinblad
Located in San Diego, CA
A nice Studio Line pillow vase by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal, circa 1970s. The vase is signed by Danish artist-cum-designer Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal of Germany as part of their...
Porcelain
Classic Rosenthal Horizon Lead Crystal Glass Candle Holder Catchall Vide Poche
By Rosenthal
Located in Miami, FL
Striking original Rosenthal Space Age Lead crystal glass horizon pillar candle holder, vide poche, catchall, bowl made in Germany. To me it looks...
Crystal
$600Sale Price / set|20% Off
Pair of Uta Feyl White Matte Porcelain Candelabrum for Rosenthal Studio Linie
By Uta Feyl, Rosenthal
Located in Chicago, IL
Pair of white matte porcelain three-light candelabrum by Uta Feyl for Rosenthal Studio Linie. Sometimes referred to as Feyl's Lotus line for Rosenthal, Germany. Introduced in 1982 a...
Porcelain
Modern Brass Candlesticks in Original Velvet Covered Box
By Rosenthal
Located in Miami, FL
Elevate your home decor with this stunning pair of mid-century modern brass candlesticks by Rosenthal. Presented in their original velvet box, these sleek and stylish pieces exude a ...
Brass
Decorative Plate ”Ten-Foot Flowers” by Andy Warhol by Rosenthal
By (after) Andy Warhol
Located in Berlin, DE
Art Plate ”Ten Foot Flowers” 1967 by Andy Warhol. Limited edition by Rosenthal group. Germany, 2002.
Porcelain
$475 / set
H 5.5 in W 3.25 in D 1.5 in
Set of Four Studio-Line Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Madonna
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
Set of four candlesticks of Madonna and baby Jesus with the three wise men by Danish artist-cum-designer Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal of Germany as part of their extensive artist-led...
Glass
Ceramic mermaid statuette / candle holder, Italy
Located in Marinha Grande, PT
Magnificent ceramic mermaid statuette / candle holder, Italian production from the 2nd half of the 20th century. The mermaid's tail forms the handle of the candle holder. In the styl...
Ceramic
$355
H 1.58 in W 11.82 in D 11.82 in
HOLIDAY GIFT - Marilyn Monroe by Andy Warhol, Rosenthal Studio Line, 1990s
By (after) Andy Warhol, Rosenthal
Located in Bochum, NRW
Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe, Rosenthal Studio Line Limited Edition Plate. This glass tray is both a practical accessory and a captivating piece of contemporary art. Squared in shape...
Glass
HOLIDAY GIFT - Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Studio Line, Porcelain Vase
By Bjorn Wiinblad
Located in Bochum, NRW
Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal studio-linie, bird decor painted in shades of blue, Germany, 1970s Marked to the bottom. In perfect condition. Dimensions: Diameter 10 cm [3.9 in.] Heigh...
Porcelain
Porcelain Vase by Björn Wiinblad Rosenthal Studio Line Germany, 1970
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in Kirchlengern, DE
Article: Op Art porcelain vase Producer: Rosenthal, Germany Designer: Björn Wiinblad Decade: 1970s This original vintage Op Art vase was produ...
Porcelain
$350 / set
H 4.75 in W 4.5 in D 1.5 in
Pair of Studio-Line Angel Candlesticks by Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal
By Bjørn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
A pair of mid-century abstract angel-shaped candlesticks by Danish artist-cum-designer Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal of Germany as part of their extensive artist-led Studio Line serie...
Glass
Bjorn Wiinblad Studio Line Ceramic Vase for Rosenthal
By Bjorn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
A beautiful oval shaped Rosenthal vase made for the Studio Line ceramics. Wonderful cobalt blue body, with a design from the 1001 nights series, beautiful colours and gilding. ...
Ceramic
A set of three ‘Hurricane’ by BJÖRN WIINBLAD
By Bjorn Wiinblad
Located in Long Island City, NY
A set of three ‘Hurricane’ storm lanterns, in nickel plated finish by BJÖRN WIINBLAD. Signed . Circa late 20th century. Signed. H 15″-22″.
Brass
$1,625
H 12.21 in W 17.33 in D 6.3 in
Polychrome porcelain candlestick on a patinated bronze mount, circa 1900
Located in NICE, FR
This rare piece captivates with the poetry of its composition. At the center stand two Chinese figures, rendered with great softness; their finely executed faces express serenity and...
Bronze
$300Sale Price|20% Off
H 9 in Dm 2.5 in
Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Porcelain Vase, 1001 Nights Series
By Rosenthal, Bjorn Wiinblad
Located in Clifton Springs, NY
Vintage cylindrical porcelain vase features a standing female figure from Bjørn Wiinblad's series for Rosenthal company, '1001 Nacht' (1001 Nights). Whimsical, colorful figures on d...
Ceramic, Porcelain
$380 / set
H 8.5 in W 4.5 in D 2.75 in
Porcelain Figurative Candle Holders in the style of Bjorn Wiinblad by AK Kaiser
By Bjorn Wiinblad, AK Kaiser
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Figurative Candle Holders by AK Kaiser, Germany Biscuit Porcelain circa 1970' Male Figure is 3.75" W x 2.75 D x 8.5 Tall Female Figure is 4.5" W x 2.75 D x 8.5 Tall "in the style ...
Porcelain
Sold
H 8.75 in W 10.75 in D 4.5 in
Candelabra by Sandra Kravitz for Rosenthal, "Tree of Light " Menorah
By Rosenthal
Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Mixed metal Jewish themed candelabra, designed by Sandra Kravitz presented by the Jacob Rosenthal Collection. The bottom is stamped Rosenthal and Sandra Kravitz.
Metal, Brass
Otmar Alt for Rosenthal "Cat" Candle Holder, Germany 1980s
By Rosenthal, Otmar Alt
Located in Naples, IT
Rare ceramic Cat candle holder designed by Otmar Alt for the Rosenthal Company . Signed at the bottom
Ceramic
Otmar Alt for Rosenthal "Cat" Candle Holder, Germany 1980s
By Rosenthal, Otmar Alt
Located in Naples, IT
Rare ceramic Cat candle holder designed by Otmar Alt for the Rosenthal Company . Signed at the bottom
Ceramic
MCM Rosenthal Porcelain Candle Holders - Set of 2
By Rosenthal
Located in Fairfield, CA
A pair of mid century porcelain candle holders from the "Classic Modern White" pattern by Rosenthal, Germany. Circular with a minimalist tapered profile, finished in a glossy white g...
Porcelain
MCM Rosenthal Porcelain Triple Candle Holder
By Rosenthal
Located in Fairfield, CA
A mid century porcelain triple candle holder from the "Classic Modern White" pattern by Rosenthal, Germany. Circular with a minimalist tapered profile, finished in a glossy white gla...
Porcelain
Sold
H 8.5 in W 3.25 in D 3.25 in
Rare Pair of Versace Prestige Gala Rosenthal Medusa Candlesticks Candleholders
By Versace Home Collection, Rosenthal
Located in West Hartford, CT
Pair of stunning porcelain candlesticks designed by Versace and made by Rosenthal - in the coveted Medusa style. These highly decorative candlesticks are of red and black design wit...
Porcelain
Set of 2 Candlesticks, Memphis Milano Style, by Rosenthal Germany
By Barbara Brenner, Rosenthal
Located in Berlin, BE
exceptional and beautiful candlesticks from Rosenthal. Model Metropol. Design: Barbara Brenner Original 1980s, in the style of Memphis Design, Milano.
Porcelain
Mid-Century Rosenthal White Porcelain Candelabra, 1940s
By Rosenthal
Located in Palermo, IT
Refined classic style candelabra with three curved arms and a central body for a larger diameter candle, in very fine creamy white porcelain with golden profiles and support spheres,...
Porcelain
Sold
H 14.5 in W 4.25 in D 4 in
Pair of White Porcelain Eva Candle Holders by Bijorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal
By Rosenthal, Bijorn Winblad
Located in Palm Springs, CA
A beautiful pair of 1970’s white porcelain Eva candle holders or vases by renowned Danish Painter Bjorn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Studio Linie Germany...
Porcelain
Sold
H 6 in W 3.75 in D 2.75 in
Studio Line White Porcelain "Bag" Vase by Tapio Wirkkala for Rosenthal
By Tapio Wirkkala, Rosenthal
Located in San Diego, CA
A nice of mid-century Studio Line white porcelain "bag" vase by Tapio Wirkkala for Rosenthal, circa 1970s. #2245 These white porcelain crushed paper bags from the "Do Not Litter...
Porcelain
Sold
H 13.5 in W 11 in D 15 in
Rosenthal Brass Articulating Hanukkah Menorah Oil Candle Lamp Candelabra Dolphin
By Rosenthal
Located in Dayton, OH
"Vintage Rosenthal Judaica Collection hinged Channuka menorah or candelabra. Made of brass featuring articulated stylized foliate branch arms with dolphin feet. Marked with a P trian...
Brass
Modernist Signed Rosenthal Emerald & Translucent Glass Art Nouveau Candle Holder
By Rosenthal
Located in New York, NY
This stunning signed modernist vase was realized in Germany during the latter half of the 20th century by the esteemed maker Rosenthal. It features a translucent circular base in an ...
Glass