West German Pottery

West German pottery is a collectors’ term for art and decorative ceramics made in the Federal Republic of Germany after 1949, especially in the 1950s–70s. It is a broad field, not one style.

Characteristics and makers

Relief, geometric or organic forms and expressive glazes are common. Makers include Scheurich, Bay Keramik, Carstens, Jasba and Dümler & Breiden.

Marks

Bases may read “W. Germany” or “West Germany” with form and size numbers. Systems vary, labels are often lost, and a number alone may not establish the maker.

Fat Lava and value

Fat Lava properly describes very thick, textured, lava-like glaze; much West German pottery is not Fat Lava. Maker, designer, model, glaze, rarity and condition influence interest.