The great pioneer of Finnish lighting design, also known as Paavo Tynell, created many of Finland, and on a bigger scale, the Nordic countries’ most recognizable and admired lighting designs. Working to incorporate artificial lighting into modern environments, Tynell’s company, Taito Oy produced fixtures for homes and some of the most prestigious interiors as well.

This rare wall lamp features brass and cane with an organic shape that is inspired by nature. A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s present design is derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of perforated and polished brass as material. Its form and material echo the structures of nature. The sleek, long brass neck is a beautiful, modern companion to the half cylinder-shaped shade. The cane is woven carefully and lets through the light in a way that created an atmospheric, cosy effect. The raw cane paired with the smooth brass may seem to be an unusual choice, but not in Tynell’s designs. The outcome is a modern look with the style and quirk of Nordic Modernism. The pole can be fixed to the wall at two points behind the pole, which creates an almost floating look.

The best qualities of Tynell's light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design. At the same time, the subtle ornamentation and clever use of materials are always present. This wall lamp is a stylish example of the designer’s Nordic Modernism, and his company, Taito Oy’s exquisite craftsmanship.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches on the brass. The shade is newly made around the original structure.

Dimensions:

7.48 in W x 5.51 in D x 50.39 in H

19 cm W x 14 cm D x 128 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”. 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, including 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.