Elly Kuch (1929-2008) and Wilhelm Kuch (1925-2022)

Stock Number: – OWA1116

Date: - Circa 1960s

Materials: – German  Clay; An Advantage For Potters! The extensive clay quarries of the Westerwald region are the largest connected deposits in Europe. Only a few other regions in the world are known to have clay sources of comparable size and quality. Around 15 different types of clay occur here, including a very valuable white clay also known as “white gold”. The Westerwald clay has a high degree of ductility, is almost free of impurities and has very good sintering properties. These clays are perfectly suited for stoneware production, a high fired, waterproof, acid-resistant, impermeable pottery. The clay was easily kneaded, thrown, deformed as well as knitted, melt, beaten and whipped. It is a serious partner to the potter reacting to any treatment. 

Country of Origin: – Germany, Burgthann outside of Nuremberg. 1948 opened the studio in Burgthann - 1953 became master potters.

Description: – A striking modernist inspired flask vase with a  superb form and flowing colour and glaze. The vase was made in Wilhelm & Elly Kuch studio and is stamped KUCH. The Shape Design by Elly Kuch and Decor by Wilhelm Kuch

Size & Weight: – The vase is approximately 28cm tall & 18cm wide and weighs 1625g

Condition: –  This stoneware vase is in excellent condition without any chips, cracks, losses or restoration to the body or decoration. 

Photography: –  There are several areas of slight discolouration which is caused by light and the photography.

History & Marks:–  This example is stamped KUCH and dates from Circa 1960s. Whilst no one could say that this piece is a one off study. However, one could say that, although you may come across another example. One would quickly realise that each one stands alone –  ‘it is a one off’. I state this because the outcome of each piece of studio pottery depends deeply on how it is placed in the kiln and moreover, how it reacts during the firing. Very few studio pieces are totally identical.

Further Information:- There is an interesting article about their work in the permenant collection of The Tennessee Arts Commission. Follow link below: https://tnartscommission.org/permanentcollection/elly-kuch/

Declaration:- This item is as described and dates from the period highlighted.

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