Silver vase Koloman Moser Wiener Werkstätte ca. 1904

Josef Hoffmann and Koloman Moser worked closely together as artists—not only sharing ideas but also influencing the formal appearance of the objects they designed. The vase designed by Moser belongs to the so-called “grid objects,” which both artists produced extensively. According to contemporary accounts, it was often difficult, even during their lifetimes, to confidently attribute an object to either artist. However, the model books of the Wiener Werkstätte show that Moser was indeed the first to introduce the perforated square pattern characteristic of the geometric Art Nouveau style on a flower stand in 1904.
In the subsequent years, Moser designed a series of everyday objects, such as table centerpieces, vases, and baskets. These objects were crafted from either white-lacquered sheet iron for a more affordable option or, as exemplified by this vase, from high-quality silver. The vase reflects Moser’s fondness for the square motif and stands as a testament to his close friendship and artistic connection with Josef Hoffmann.