Porcelain Rosenthal appeared at the end of the XIX century. The manufactory was founded by Philipp Rosenthal and named after him. The production, centered in the city of Selb on the border between Germany and the Czech Republic, quickly became a success. The motto of the factory has remained unchanged for more than a century: “To live with art.”
These are not just words – Rosenthal porcelain can really be attributed to works of art. Sketches for him were created by famous artists: Salvador Dali (Salvador Dali), Walter Gropius (Walter Gropius), Andy Warhol (Andy Warhol). Designers from leading fashion houses such as Versace and Bulgari are also involved in cooperation.
The history of the Rosenthal Porcelain
It is no accident that Rosenthal porcelain appeared in Selb. The Bavarian town is famous for its long tradition of porcelain production. Rosenthal was initially engaged only in painting white porcelain, which he purchased from other manufactories. His workshop was in Werl. When there were interruptions in the supply of linen, the entrepreneur decided to switch to full-cycle production and launched it in Selb in 1879.
Rosenthal porcelain became famous just a few years later thanks to one product: the famous ashtray with the words: “A resting place for a lit cigar.” Even then, the manufacturer made it clear that he sees in porcelain not just utilitarian items. This gothic type ashtray was original for its time and gained immense popularity.
Over the next 50 years, the ever-evolving factory added more than 10 other companies bought out by Rosenthal. Gradually Rosenthal AG acquired the status of one of the world’s best manufacturers of artistic porcelain.
In 1934, Philipp Rosenthal was forced to leave the factory because of his Jewish origin.
Three years later he died, and his son and heir went abroad. For some time the manufactory continued to work, but in 1945 it was closed.
Already in the 1950s, Philip Rosenthal Jr. returned to his homeland and continued his father’s work. The revival of the manufactory was successful, and soon the brand again took its place among the leaders in porcelain production.
The Rosenthal manufactory now
Now the Rosenthal manufactory is a modern factory with an excellent reputation, part of the Italian group Sambonet Paderno Industrie. The brand is constantly collaborating with famous artists and designers, so its products set the fashion in the field of tableware and valuable souvenirs.
For example, a new design by Bethan Laura Wood has recently appeared, inspired by the weaving work of Anni Albers from the Bauhaus.
In total, more than a hundred artists collaborated with the brand. Here are some of them:
- Walter Gropius;
- Konstantin Grcic Luigi Colani;
- Jasper Morrison (Jasper Morrison);
- Enzo Marie.
