Paavo Tynell Model "1024" Pendant Lamp for Taito, Finland 1935 (sold)






































Paavo Tynell Model "1024" Pendant Lamp for Taito, Finland 1935 (sold)
Paavo Tynell is one of Finland’s best known and most collected mid-century designers, a true pioneer of Nordic lighting. This lamp was made by the famous Finnish manufacturer Taito Oy, one of the most innovative lighting companies of Finland, which Tynell co-founded and where he worked as chief designer until 1953.
During the interwar period, Tynell created both Art Deco-style and Functionalist lamps. For his more Functionalist pieces, like this one, he took into account how the lamp was to be used, the colour of the light, and the opal glass's nuances. This “1024” model is a perfect example of how the combined materials of opal glass and brass can create an elegant and classic look. Brass, with its warm and timeless radiance complements any interior, exuding opulence, while opal glass diffuses light with a soft, ethereal glow. The milky, opal glass was a popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-century era, due in part to its ability to soften harsh light, creating ambiance. As this pendant lamp demonstrates, it was also prized for its lustrous, opaque finish, which gives it a sophisticated and refined look. Tynell was a master of working with this material, and his opal glass lamps are some of his most sought-after designs. This harmonious pairing of materials endures as a hallmark of sophistication, blending seamlessly into contemporary design aesthetics. Furthermore, the lamp is composed of a slender stem, which the glass shades hang from. The shades are arranged in a tiered fashion reminiscent of a fountain. The design’s main characteristic is its effective simplicity, free of unnecessary ornamentation. The uncluttered look leaves the attention on the materials and on its functionality that the form is in service of. In addition, while the design is quite succinct with clear lines and precision in the smallest details, it still possesses a luxuriously stylish impression.
Overall, the composition of the shapes and clever design elements give this lamp a personality that isn’t loud but still stands out. By the end of the 1930s, Finland’s international reputation for great design was established, thanks in no small part to the work of Paavo Tynell who had pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has been recently rewired. Thin crack on large shade that is covered by brass stem piece; damage is not visible when lamp is mounted.
Dimensions:
21.45 in ⌀ x 37.59 in H
54.5 cm ⌀ x 95.5 cm H
Shade dimensions:
Small shade
13.58 in ⌀ x 18.50 in H
34.5 cm ⌀ x 47 cm H
Large shade
21.45 in ⌀ x 18.50 in H
54.5 cm ⌀ x 47 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
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, Tynell’s designs were born from a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material. As co-founder and chief designer of Taito Oy, he developed fixtures that combined technical precision with an understated elegance, favouring balanced proportions and softly diffused illumination.
Before his retirement in 1953, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this milk glass ceiling lamp with the model number “2034”. The piece demonstrates this restrained approach with exceptional clarity. The fixture appears effortless: a gently rounded opaline glass shade is suspended beneath a discreet metal mount, creating a composition defined by pure geometry and grace. The softly tapering profile of the glass lends the lamp a sculptural presence, while its glossy surface reflects ambient light even when unlit. When illuminated, the opaline diffuser transforms into a glowing bulb, dispersing light evenly and eliminating harsh shadows. The exposed metal fitting provides a subtle visual anchor above the glass, introducing just enough contrast without disturbing the calm harmony of the design.
Although modest, model “2034” possesses an enduring architectural presence. Every element has been reduced to its essential form, allowing proportion, material, and light itself to become the defining decorative features.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.84 in ø x 12 in H
25 cm ø x 30.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Finnish lighting design. As a co-founder and chief designer of Taito Oy, he helped establish a distinctly Finnish approach to lighting that combined masterful metalwork with an organic sense of form. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, his designs drew inspiration from nature while remaining deeply rooted in functionality.
Tynell’s model “9414” wall lamp reflects this philosophy through its graceful lines, adjustable construction, and thoughtful use of natural materials. Rather than relying on symmetry, the lamp unfolds through a series of elegant bends that give the brass arm a distinct visual quality. Extending confidently from the wall, the articulated arm allows the light to be positioned with flexibility while creating a striking linear composition. Suspended from the brass arm is a tapered rattan shade, the warm texture contrasts beautifully with the polished brass structure. The small wooden slats gently filter the light, producing a soft, atmospheric glow that enhances the comforting character of the design. Every transition between horizontal and vertical lines feels effortless, revealing Tynell's remarkable ability to transform a functional mechanism into something sculptural.
The best qualities of Tynell's lamp designs are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design. At the same time, the subtle ornamentation and clever use of materials are always present. Model “9414” functions equally well as a reading lamp, bedside light, or decorative wall fixture, adapting easily to a variety of interiors through its adjustable construction.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade was custom-made by our in-house atelier. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
15.35 in W × 18.70 in D × 12.40 in H
39 cm W x 47.5 cm D x 31.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
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 material.
Tynell’s designs in the ceiling lamp series that this lamp belongs to merge together simple shapes and sculptural elements. In the 1950s, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this rare milk glass ceiling lamp with the model number “80112-25”. This lamp embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterized Finnish design in the 1950s. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent pure ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, known as Lattimo. At that time, it was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when the material was used as home accents to decorate households. This lamp has an eye-catching blunted cone shape that has a strong presence sticking out quite literally. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light this lamp diffuses. Thanks to the concealed aluminium ceiling holder, this lamp is flush mounted without any exposed parts but the glass shades. Tynell was a master of working with milk glass, and his lamps of this material are some of his most sought-after designs.
The 1950s was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as 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, but functional design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
9.84 in Ø x 10.04 in H
25 cm Ø x 25.5 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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
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 born from a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material.
In the early to mid-20th century, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this pair of model “2025 A” milk glass ceiling lamps. This pair embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised early modern Finnish design. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation or elaborate shapes and forms, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent pure ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, known as Lattimo. At that time, it was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when the material was used to decorate households as home accents. To complement the glass material, the shades feature a bold geometric shape, which is the main visual point of interest. Nickel-plated brass ceiling caps connect the shades to the ceiling, offering the lamps a cool sheen even when unlit. The circular caps balance out the angular shape of the shades. Milk glass was a popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-20th century, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this model demonstrates. Tynell was a master of working with this material, and his milk glass lamps are some of his most sought-after designs.
The 20th century was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as creatives like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. During this time, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, leading to more designers creating pieces like this model. Both beautiful and practical, model “2025 A” left an unforgettable mark in the history of light and ambiance.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Imperfections on the glass may be present due to age and manufacturing inconsistencies. Additionally, due to the nature and age of the metal elements, some marks, scratches, and discolouration may be present.
This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
5.90 in W x 5.90 in D x 7.28 in H
15 cm W x 15 cm D x 18.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
It is simply impossible to talk about 20th century Finnish lighting design without mentioning Paavo Tynell. Widely referred to as “The Man who Illuminated Finland”, Tynell not only founded Oy Taito AB, he also founded an unmistakeable aesthetic and created hundreds of individual lighting models.
His world-renowned and often extremely rare works are mostly formed from perforated and polished brass, however, his early lamps had a chandelier inspired design and during the 1920s, the use of glass became an increasingly important part of his lamps. This model is special for a number of reasons besides its rarity. Firstly, the material: Tynell mostly only used wrought iron in the earlier phase of his career, designing richly decorated chandeliers that preceded the modernist movement’s widespread influence. Secondly, like many of his creations, this “1709” model might have been a one-off, designed for a specific place. Thirdly, very few of his iron models were paired with glass shades. Here, the upward facing glass shades are placed at the end of the four arms. Their gently rounded shape and colour stand out beautifully against the black iron and the richly decorated body. On the list of decorative elements are the ring on the finial, the rod adorned with floral elements, the curves of the arms, and finally, the way the rod connects to the canopy. These features make this chandelier an early example of Tynell’s expressiveness that drew inspiration from previous design movements and eras.
Tynell was a master of peculiar decorative elements that never feel tacky or excessive and this is mainly thanks to his great sense of balance. In 1918 Tynell founded Oy Taito AB, which eventually became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This rare chandelier model from the 1930s can easily draw all the attention while not compromising on quality and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
23.23 in Ø x 29.13 in H
59 cm Ø x 74 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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Finnish mid-century design is characterised by simple, elegant forms - which Paavo Tynell was a master of. Reflective of Finnish culture, he embraced timeless beauty, sustainability and a deep connection to the natural world. Tynell is one of Finland’s best known and most collected mid-century designers. He was a pioneer of European lighting design and a founder of the first lighting manufacturing company in Finland, Taito Oy.
Functionality and a pared down style are key principles for the Finnish icon. In the 1960s, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this opal glass ceiling lamp with the model number “A2-7”. With its sleek and simple aesthetic, and in the absence of heavy ornamentation, the emphasis falls on materials. Opal glass, appropriately named for its opaque or white tone, was first created by glass blowing houses in Venice in the 16th century. At that time, it was widely used for decorative purposes but continued to be popular during the 20th century. Milk glass was an extremely popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-20th century, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this pair demonstrates. To complement the model, three metal rings come together to create a distinctive element placed at the opening of the shade. Through its white colour, this detail provides an interesting visual point without overwhelming the design.
The 1960s was a decade of great innovation in Finnish design, as designers like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. Tynell was a master of working with opal glass, and his lamps of this material are some of his most sought-after designs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lights have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Imperfections on the outer glass may be present due to the age of the material and manufacturing inconsistencies. The lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.64 in ⌀ x 5.31 in H
24.5 cm ⌀ x 13.5 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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is widely regarded as one of the defining figures of Finnish lighting design in the twentieth century, known for his ability to merge metal craftsmanship with a refined, sense of form. As the founder and leading designer of Taito Oy, and later through his collaboration with Idman, Tynell developed lighting fixtures that combined technical precision with decorative lightness.
Model “K1-12” reflects the designer’s characteristic approach of pairing elegant materials with a carefully balanced composition. This chandelier combines brass and glass, and is defined by its graceful, radial structure and the interplay between solidity and delicacy. The central brass body extends outward with gently curving arms, each supporting an opaline glass shade. The shades diffuse the light evenly, creating a warm and inviting glow. The brass frame provides both structure and visual rhythm, with each arm contributing to a balanced, symmetrical composition. Suspended from the stem are small decorative crystal elements, which introduce a subtle sense of movement and catch the light in a delicate manner. This detail adds a layer of ornamentation without disrupting the overall clarity of the design. The combination of polished brass and matte glass is central to the chandelier’s character: the metal reflects and amplifies light, while the glass softens it. The proportions are carefully thought-out, allowing the chandelier to function as both a source of illumination and a focal point.
What distinguishes this model is the way it incorporates decorative elements within a timeless look. This balance gives the piece a distinctive presence without making it overly ornate. As such, it stands as a strong example of Tynell’s ability to elevate functional lighting into a carefully composed object.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
37.79 in ⌀ x 15.75 in H
96 cm ⌀ x 40 cm H
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
This lamp is one of those models that lighting design enthusiasts recognize immediately, a truly iconic design. Paavo Tynell designed this model “9060” in 1950-52 for the secretariat's room at the United Nations building in New York City.
Lighting designer Paavo Tynell, “the man who illuminated Finland,” was the founder and chief designer of Taito Oy - the first industrial producer of lighting fixtures in Finland. A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s elegant brass designs were derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility. This model is in many ways his most famous ceiling light design and not solely for its impressive story. The design has entirely unique elements such as the glass inside the reflector, the unusual circular finial, and the perforated shade to name a few. All of these features are in service of the unique distribution of the light, provided by four bulbs sitting above the glass inside the white lacquered reflector. The light shines in all directions thanks to the open, hanging brazier-like shade, the open bottom with brass circles, and the patterned, perforated brass. The result is bordering the realm of lighting art, with the brass dressed in golden light. The body is held by two brass rods connected to the rounded canopy. Despite its many distinctive elements, the design is united by its material, the beautiful polished brass, Tynell’s preferred material to work with.
Tynell’s international design influence grew thanks to the Finland House located in New York City and resulted in prestigious commissions both for public buildings such as the United Nations HQ but also for important private collections. Model “9060” is a historic testament of his design prowess and craftsmanship, remaining one of the most coveted lighting pieces to this day.
Condition:
In good vintage condition consistent with age and use. The brass has some weather marks and a beautiful patina.
Dimensions:
21.45 in ⌀ x 20.86 in H
54.5 cm ⌀x 53 cm H
Literature:
Idman, sales catalogues, no. 135, 136, 140, 142, 1953-1959, n.p.
Finland House Lighting: Harmony in lighting for harmony in living, original designs by Paavo Tynell, sales catalogue, New York, p. 23.
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 when 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. 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.
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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Tynell's lamps have developed in style over time; his early lamps had a chandelier inspired design, during the 1920s, the use of glass became an increasingly important part of his lamps. During the interwar period, Tynell designed both art deco-style lamps and more functionalistic, simpler lamps. In his functionalist inspired lamps, Tynell took into account how the lamp was to be used, which is clearly traceable in the design of these “A2” lamps.
The modernistic look is achieved by the simple, yet smart design of the black lacquered cylindrical silhouette. The look is almost industrial, yet has the edge is Finnish mid-century design. By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation in design, and the versatility of Tynell explains why. As seen in this model, the masterful combination of materials, blend of aesthetic and functional design features, and expert craftsmanship was indispensable. Despite being made of metal, the bodies appear light mainly thanks to the structures connecting to the backplates that allow the lamps to be adjusted in almost any direction and angle. Furthermore, since the cylinders are open at both ends, providing two sources of light, making this pair both ideal task and ambient light sources. The two main structural elements - the white shade holders, and backplates and the black shades are clearly separated both by their colours and shapes. This results in a greatly balanced look that Tynell was a master of. The most significant clientele of the luminaires designed by Tynell were architects, which made Paavo Tynell the leading lighting designer for public spaces, and that likely goes for these “A2” wall lights as well.
The lamps still have Idman Oy’s manufacturer’s mark. The firm, Taito Oy, was established by Tynell in 1918, and it would become his life work. In 1953, Idman Oy acquired the majority of shares in Taito Oy, nonetheless, Paavo Tynell continued to work for the company on a freelance basis, through his own design firm. This model was designed and produced during this time.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
5.9 in W x 7.28 in H x 8.85 in H
15 cm W x 18.5 cm D x 22.5 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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
By the 1950s, Finland’s international reputation for great design was established, thanks in no small part to the work of Paavo Tynell. He was the most famous Finnish industrial designer and came to be known as “the man who illuminated Finland”, thanks to his notable lighting models. As a master craftsman, his designs were inspired by a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility.
Tynell’s ceiling lamp series that this piece belongs to merge together simple shapes and sculptural elements. From the 1930s through the 1950s, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including these “80112” milk glass ceiling lamps. The pieces embody the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish lighting design of the mid-century period. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation, there was a deep emphasis on great materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent pure ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, known as Lattimo. At that time, it was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century, when the material was used for constructing home accents. This lamp model has an eye-catching blunted cone shape with a strong presence sticking out - quite literally. Still, the edges are soft, creating an organic shape. Thanks to the concealed aluminium ceiling holders, these lamps are flush mounted without any exposed parts but the glass shades. Tynell was a master of working with milk glass, and these models are some of his most sought-after designs.
The mid-century period was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as creatives like Tynell and manufacturers like Idman pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. The best qualities of the era’s light fixtures are their atmospheric glow and disciplined, functionalist design. This lamp set embodies these qualities perfectly.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Minor marks, scratches and imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and the age of the lamps.
Dimensions:
11.61 in ø x 11.81 in H
29.5 cm ø x 30 cm H
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell’s opal glass flush mounts are some of his most celebrated works, blending modernist minimalism with a soft, organic aesthetic. The designs are often seen as exemplifying the Scandinavian “hygge” - a focus on creating warm, comfortable, and intimate spaces. This piece is exemplary of this pursuit.
The simple yet elegant “2025” model embodies the sophistication of Finnish modern design. With its smooth unadorned opal glass construction, the piece provides a soft, even light, showcasing Tynell’s masterful ability to combine function with refined aesthetics. The clean cylindrical form reflects the era’s focus on simplicity and understated beauty, key characteristics of mid-century modern design. The design aligns with the broader unadorned design trends of the 1940s, where sleek lines, functional forms, and an emphasis on quality craftsmanship dominated. A wonderful thing about this flush mount—besides its stylish look—is that it’s an excellent option for making interiors appear more spacious. One of the hallmarks of Finnish lighting design is its seamless blend into architecture and interior design. Light fixtures like this model are designed to complement their surroundings while making a distinct visual statement.
The mid-20th century was a time of great innovation in Finland, as designers like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. There was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, as designers sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Paavo Tynell's lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with a peculiar, but useful design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor marks on shade.
Dimensions:
14.17 in Ø x 9.84 in H
36 cm Ø x 25 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is regarded as one of Finland’s pioneering lighting designers, celebrated for his design approach that merged natural inspiration with refined craftsmanship. Working for his company, Taito Oy, during the first half of the 20th century, Tynell was instrumental in shaping the character of Finnish lighting design. His creations often combined brass, glass, and delicate detailing, resulting in fixtures that feel classic and sophisticated.
This lamp features a ribbed opal glass shade that emits a soft, warm light, showcasing Tynell’s dedication to creating inviting atmospheres. Suspended from a slender, elegant nickel-plated brass rod and finished with a minimalist metal cap, the shade floats gracefully. The diffused glow enhances the surrounding space without harshness, embodying the designer’s belief in lighting as an integral architectural element rather than a mere accessory. The refined simplicity of the form allows the quality of the materials and the purity of the design to shine. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, showcasing a masterful sense of balance and proportion. With its timeless shape, this lamp has maintained its appeal over decades, blending perfectly into various interior styles, from mid-century modern to contemporary spaces.
This model has an outstanding sense of proportions and balance with an inherently modern look that is sure to stand out in any space. Not only does this lamp provide functional illumination, but it also represents a testament to its legacy, rooted in Finnish artistry and craftsmanship.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pendant lamp has recently been rewired. There are minor dents and scratches in the metal. Due to the age and nature of the metal, the lamp may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.
Dimensions:
9.05 in ø x 38.98 in H
23 cm ø x 99 cm H