Vitra Ceramic Container No. 3
Best decorative storage for design enthusiasts seeking a playful, artisanal touch.
The Vitra Ceramic Container No. 3, a 1952 design by Alexander Girard, brings playful sensuousness to any space. Originally conceived as lathe-turned wooden objects, these containers are now expertly crafted from hand-glazed ceramic. Their unique silhouettes draw inspiration from traditional apothecary vessels, game tokens, and millinery blocks, offering an artisanal aesthetic. This functional art piece is perfect for organizing small essentials like keys or coins, showcasing Girard's distinctive color palettes and his significant impact on post-war American design.
$295.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
96
/ 1523
#96 in Decorative Jars
Price vs Category Average
+113%
Above average
Material
Ceramic
/ Ceramic
Who it's for
- Design enthusiasts seeking timeless mid-century sculptural decor
- Quality-focused buyers wanting durable, long-lasting home accessories
- Minimalists needing versatile storage for desks or shelves
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable storage solutions
- Families with young children or pets prone to accidents
- Users requiring lightweight, easily portable organizational containers
Performance breakdown
Design Heritage
An authentic 1952 Alexander Girard design with significant mid-century pedigree.
Artisanal Craftsmanship
Hand-glazed ceramic finish provides a unique, high-quality tactile experience.
Visual Impact
Distinctive silhouette and vibrant palette serve as a striking focal point.
Storage Versatility
Perfect for small trinkets but limited by its compact, asymmetrical form.
Maintenance Ease
Hand-wash only requirement demands careful handling to preserve the glaze.
Material Durability
Fragile ceramic construction requires placement away from high-traffic household areas.
Key Specs
Material
Ceramic
Finish
Hand-Glazed
Designer
Alexander Girard, 1952
Style
Mid-Century Modern
Pattern
Solid
Shape
Asymmetrical
Intended Use
Catchall
Food Safe
False
Features
- Inspired by apothecary, game, and millinery forms.
- Artisanal hand-glazed ceramic construction.
- Designed by Alexander Girard in 1952.
- Ideal for storing keys, coins, and trinkets.
- Showcases rich, distinctive color palettes.
- Functional art piece for modern interiors.
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly regard the Vitra Ceramic Container No. 3 as a premium investment piece defined by its iconic design and impeccable craftsmanship. Reviewers consistently praise the substantial weight and smooth, high-quality ceramic finish, noting its robust and luxurious feel. This container successfully elevates any space, often described as functional art that integrates seamlessly into various interiors due to its timeless aesthetic. While the price is high, purchasers agree that the exceptional quality, durability, and aesthetic longevity fully justify the cost. Satisfaction centers on its perceived value as a sophisticated, durable object designed for discerning enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
No, this container is not food safe. It is intended strictly for decorative use or as a catchall for small items like keys and coins.
No, the container is not dishwasher safe. Due to its hand-glazed ceramic construction, we recommend cleaning it gently with a soft, dry cloth to preserve the finish.
Because each container is handmade and hand-glazed, there may be slight variations in the finish and color application. These artisanal nuances are a hallmark of the production process and make each piece unique.
While it functions as a piece of art, it is designed as a catchall for small essentials. Its size and shape make it ideal for organizing items like jewelry, coins, or keys on a console table or desk.
The Vitra Ceramic Container No. 3 features a two-part design consisting of a base and a removable lid, staying true to its inspiration from traditional apothecary vessels.
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