Teapot

Designer Hans Przyrembel German
ca. 1924–28
Not on view
This teapot, designed during Hans Przyrembel’s time at the Bauhaus (1924–28), is an excellent example of the inventive juxtapositions of primary-form geometry taught by the well-known theoretician and teacher, Johannes Itten(1888–1967). Przyrembel’s teapot is a modernist geometric exploration of circular and triangular forms. Its geometry lends itself to a clever optical illusion—its side view does not reveal its true circular shape. In 1929, Przyrembel began to work independently in Leipzig, soon gaining a reputation as one of the most well-known silversmiths in Germany. He made coffee pots, candlesticks, jewelry, lamps, and other utensils. In 1942, Przyrembel’s thriving career came to a sudden end when he was conscripted into the army. He died in 1945 as a Russian prisoner of war.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Teapot
  • Designer: Hans Przyrembel (German, Halle 1900–1945 unknown)
  • Date: ca. 1924–28
  • Medium: Copper alloy and wood
  • Dimensions: 2021.54.41a, b (teapot with lid): 4 × 11 1/4 × 7 3/4 in., 1.9 lb. (10.2 × 28.6 × 19.7 cm, 843.69g)
  • Classification: Silver
  • Credit Line: Gift of Jacqueline Loewe Fowler, 2020
  • Object Number: 2021.54.41a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Modern and Contemporary Art

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