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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

Surrounding countries exerted a strong influence of the developing ‘Finnish Style’ initially, but a dialogue with nature was to become the prime force in the ongoing evolution of the country’s design. This relationship with Nature was much in evidence in early 20th century Finnish design, which actively expanded on the metaphors and motifs therein. This model with its Nickel-plated body and opaline glass shad is a design classic among early mid-century modern pendant lamp models.

Paavo Tynell founded Oy Taito Ab in 1918, which became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. In his Functionalism inspired lamps, Tynell took into account how the lamp was to be used, the colour of the light, and the opal glass's nuances. This model “555” pendant lamp dates to the designer’s pre-brass era and is in an early modern functionalist style. It was originally designed as a flush mount, therefore this pendant version is quite special. The pendant is composed of nickeled metal shaft and a uniquely shaped opal glass shade. The design is quite succinct, with clear lines and precision obvious even in the smallest details. The main decorative element remains the shade itself; the ribbed glass has horizontal grooves and a cylindrical shape. Aided by a light colour tint, the glass shade has a warm and bright look when lit. Tynell was a master of subtle, dimmed lighting and has had an outstanding sense of proportions and balance. The subtle light is therefore paired with the shiny nickeled canopy, rod, and conical pendant holder while the long, straight shaft accentuates the shade’s shape.

By the end of the 1930s, Finland’s international reputation for great design was established, thanks in no small part to the work of giants like Alvar Aalto. But also to Paavo Tynell who had been designing innovative lighting and new forms of glass throughout the decade – designs still increasing in popularity today.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks on the metal parts.The nickel-plated structure is a later addition to the glass flush mount.

Dimensions:

7.87 in ⌀ x 32.28 in H

20 cm ⌀ x 82 cm H

About the designer:

Paavo Tynell (1890-1973) was an industrial designer, known as the great pioneer of Finnish lighting design and fondly dubbed as “the man who illuminated Finland”.

Tyne was one of the founders and chief designers of Taito Oy – the first industrial producer of lighting fixtures in Finland. With the innovation of electricity in the beginning of the 20th century, Taito Oy and Tynell expanded the thinking and manufacturing of modern lighting solutions in Europe and abroad.

Paavo Tynell rose to prominence in the 1930s and 40s where he collaborated with some of the most renowned Finnish architects, Alvar Aalto being the most notable one. Working to incorporate artificial lighting into modern environments, Tynell’s company Taito Oy produced fixtures for all of Alvar Aalto’s major projects including the Paimio Sanatorium and the Viipuri Library.

Tynell was especially appraised through his involvement with the Finland House, a design atelier in New York that showcased the work of Finnish designers and craftspeople. His elegant brass designs became an instant success in North America, and he began creating lighting designs for the prestigious American company, Lightolier.

A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s designs were derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of perforated and polished brass as material. Marked by delicacy and softness, his most famous forms in lightning echo the structures of nature; he adroitly created sculptural shapes reminiscent of the branches of trees, swirling snowflakes and seashells. ~H.