Ruscha Keramic Fat Lava Wall Plate, West German (1960s)

Ruscha Ceramic Wall Plate
Ruscha Keramik, West Germany, circa 1960s
Glazed stoneware
Diameter: 28 cm

This ceramic wall plate was produced by Ruscha Keramik in West Germany during the 1960s, a period when the company became known for its experimental glazes and sculptural wall pieces. The plate features a dark, textured ground surrounding a vivid central field of blue and turquoise glazes, where the surface shifts from deep cobalt through lighter aqua tones with an almost volcanic quality.

At the centre, a vertical arrangement of raised circular elements creates a subtle sculptural relief. These rounded forms catch the light across the iridescent glaze, giving the piece depth and movement when viewed from different angles. The contrast between the matte, charcoal-toned outer glaze and the luminous centre is characteristic of the expressive studio-led approach that defined much West German ceramics of the period.

Founded in Rheinbach in 1948 by Kurt Schneider, Ruscha became one of the most influential ceramic manufacturers in West Germany during the mid-20th century. The company produced a wide range of vases, wall plaques and decorative ceramics, often distinguished by bold glazing techniques and textured surfaces that reflected the era’s interest in abstraction and material experimentation.

Both decorative and sculptural, this plate works well as a single wall piece or as part of a larger grouping of West German ceramics.

Condition
Very good vintage condition with no chips or cracks. The glaze remains bright and even across the surface with minor variations typical of the firing process.