This sculptural, mid-century “62403” floor lamp features brass and cane with an organic shape that is inspired by nature. Finnish designer Paavo Tynell was hugely influenced by forms found in nature and incorporated them in his lighting designs. This lamp was manufactured by the historical Finnish company, Idman Oy (anno 1897).

The lamp has an irregular and loosely woven fabric shade that is supported by a thin, slanted brass pole. When lit up, the organic shade provides a warm, cosy light. In the middle, the pole is wrapped in cane, creating a ‘handle’ that prevents finger stains on the brass.

At the top, the lamp has a hinge to adjust the shade to a desired angle. The lamp is grounded by the round brass plated steel base, which also adds a bit of weight to this otherwise airy looking lamp.  

The lamp is marked by the manufacturer’s sign.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has some small dimples on the foot.

Dimensions:

11.82 in W x 18.12 in D x 53.15 in H

30 cm W x 46 cm D x 135 cm H

Literature:

Idman Lighting Catalogue nr. 136 – 1954, p. 55.

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”. Tynell 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 1940s, during which period he collaborated with some of the most renowned Finnish architects, inlcuding Alvar Aalto. 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.