A wonderfully weathered pair of large Diabolo planters by Willy Guhl for Eternit, Switzerland, both dated 1963.

The Diabolo is one of Guhl's most distinctive designs for Eternit, characterised by its sculptural hourglass form. Two opposing conical sections narrow dramatically towards the centre, creating a remarkably elegant profile from what is essentially a simple and highly functional garden planter.

This pair is particularly impressive in scale, each measuring approximately 95 cm high and 52 cm in diameter. The tall, slender proportions give the planters considerable presence, while the narrow waist creates a remarkably light and elegant profile.

Both planters were acquired together and each retains its impressed Eternit factory markings and 1963 date, clearly identifying their period of manufacture.

For us, much of the appeal of this particular pair lies in their surfaces. The planters have clearly been repainted at various stages during their life, and these successive layers of paint have gradually weathered, faded and broken down through decades of exposure. Rather than presenting a uniform painted finish, the surfaces now reveal numerous tones and textures, with areas of white, grey and the underlying material appearing through one another.

We acquired the planters in exactly this condition and have deliberately done nothing to alter their surfaces. They have aged beautifully and we felt that cleaning or repainting them would remove much of the character that has developed naturally over more than sixty years.

There are minor chips and losses around the edges together with extensive surface weathering, staining and deterioration to the various layers of old paint, all consistent with prolonged outdoor use. Importantly, there are no significant cracks or structural repairs and both planters remain solid and entirely usable.

Although conceived as functional garden objects, the strength of Guhl's form gives the Diabolo planters an almost sculptural quality. This is particularly apparent when the two are positioned together, where their matching forms and individually weathered surfaces create a very strong visual presence.

A particularly attractive original pair, retaining their 1963 Eternit markings and beautifully aged surfaces developed through decades of use.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.