This Erwin Hauer light diffusing block was salvaged from a mid century modern home in Fort Worth, Texas. These are authentic vintage used blocks and as such vary in condition and patina. Most of the blocks still retain the original US Patent number stamped on the end. The striking design and material make for a unique decorative item for display. As a mid century modern architectural element, these could be mounted on a base or stand like an artifact. Even placing two or three blocks together give them a sculptural appearance, like the walls themselves.
The blocks were designed and patented by Erwin Franz Hauer in July of 1957. Hauer, an Austrian-born American sculptor, studied at Vienna’s Academy of Applied Arts and later under Josef Albers at Yale. He designed several types of modular blocks which could be used as elements for building continuous architectural screens and walls. Known as the Continua series, these blocks were just one of his patented designs. Architects used these blocks to create distinct building facades and privacy walls, while allowing natural light to filter through.
- Historical photos are for reference only and are not included with the architectural block. Any copyright or trademark of these images remains the property of its respective owner(s)
DESIGNER: Erwin Franz Hauer (1926-2017)
MAKER: Murals, Inc. New York
PERIOD: 1960’s
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: United States
MATERIALS: Cast masonry cement and concrete.
HEIGHT: 8 in. (20 cm)
WIDTH: 8 in. (20 cm)
DEPTH: 6.5 in. (17 cm)
CONDITION: Good condition with wear consistent with age and use. These are vintage used blocks and as such vary in condition and patina.
