The most famous Finnish industrial designer, Paavo Tynell. came to be known as the “man who illuminated Finland” thanks to his notable lighting designs. A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s designs were derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as materials.

Like most light fixtures of the era, the design of this wall sconce assumes a more minimalist look that illuminates the space with direct light from the shade. Most mid-century designers prized the marriage of form and function, with a poise that is hard to imitate or force. It is this effortless element that sets the era’s designs apart. The shape and materials dictate the overall aesthetic of this lamp, introducing modernism to the classic style of a one-armed wall lamp. The back plate balances and accentuates the rod and shade nicely with its round shape. This lamp also showcases Tynell’s brilliant pairing of materials, brass and opal glass, which are quintessentially mid-century modern. Furthermore, since the two materials dictate the look, much attention was paid to the quality and to the craftsmanship that united them into their curved shape. The design of this lamp also has great proportions, and when lit, creates an exceptionally atmospheric light. Sconces are timeless pieces of lighting fixtures that can easily elevate their surroundings. This type of fixture never goes out of style, and has been in use for centuries for good reason.

Finnish designers - like Tynell - pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. At the same time, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, as designers sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and a peculiar, distinctive design.‎

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Manufacturing-related marks on the inner edges of the shades

Dimensions:

5.51 in W x 7.84 in D x 11.42 in H

14 cm W x 20 cm D x 29 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 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.