“Pikku Pikku”, or “the tiny one”, is a Finnish mid-century classic. From teaching design at the Illinois Institute of Technology, to working in Paraguay and Mauritius, Yrjö Ilmari Tapiovaara led an interesting life with many influences that can be traced in his furniture design. The Pikku Pikku is no exception.

Tapiovaara was one of the greatest interior architects and designers of his era. It is often said that he captured the essence of Finnish identity, creating dozens of iconic objects that remain popular to this day. This “tiny one” has gained the title of iconic thanks to its versatile materials and recognizable form that is a copied to this day. The model is defined by its white painted metal shade and brass body. This combination of materials gives it an appealing modern look made uniquely distinctive by the leather covering of the shaft. In his clear and simple design style, Tapiovaara created a structure that serves its function perfectly, but also serves the human eye in an aesthetic way. As a floor lamp, this model is very practical. Its head can be freely adjusted to direct the light in any direction, both vertically and horizontally. The name may be a reference to the relative shortness of the lamp, reaching just above a meter. The switch is on top of the shade, therefore it can be reached comfortably from a sitting position as well. The brass and partially leather wrapped stem form a nice contrast with the white lacquered aluminium, elevating this model’s visual quality.

Throughout his long career, Ilmari Tapiovaara refused to stay within the bounds of traditional furniture design. With interests as wide-ranging as his talents, he created this lamp with the mind of an explorer and the soul of a craftsman. Simple and meticulous, Ilmari Tapiovaara laid the foundations of Finnish industrial design.

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The brass and shade have some marks and scratches.

Dimensions:

9.45 in W x 9.45 in D x 41.34 in H

24 cm W x 24 cm D x 105 cm H

About the designer:

Ilmari Tapiovaara graduated in 1937 as interior architect from the department of furniture design of the Central School of Arts and Crafts. Even before graduating, Tapiovaara went abroad to work for Alvar Aalto in Artek's London office in 1935. Right after completing his education Tapiovaara got a position of assistant at the office of Le Corbusier, in France. These were not the only times he learned from international masters; he also worked with Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in Chicago, in 1953. Read more about Ilmari Tapiovaara. ~H.