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
This “2004” pendant lamp, designed by Paavo Tynell for Taito in the 1930s, is a quintessential example of early Finnish modern lighting. Known as “the man who illuminated Finland,” Tynell was a pioneer in bringing elegance, lightness, and innovation to everyday interiors. His designs for Taito helped establish Finnish lighting as a global benchmark, blending functionality with a poetic sensibility that made lamps more than utilitarian objects, but integral elements of atmosphere and style.
This model features a softly stepped opaline glass shade that diffuses light evenly, producing a warm and atmospheric glow. The shade’s gentle form showcases Tynell’s gift for balancing simplicity with refinement, ensuring that the piece remains modest in profile while quietly sophisticated in detail. Suspended from a slender nickel-plated rod attached to a polished canopy, the lamp demonstrates Tynell’s sensitivity to proportion and harmony, qualities that made his designs adaptable to a wide range of interiors. The use of opaline glass was not only functional, providing glare-free illumination ideal for dining or working spaces, but also aesthetic, introducing a soft tone that completes the sheen of the metal fittings. When lit, the lamp enhances its surroundings in a practical, yet atmospheric way through masterful construction, elegant materials, and timeless allure.
Model “2004” was manufactured at Taito. In 1918 Tynell founded Oy Taito AB, which eventually became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This rare 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. The pendant lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have minor marks, scratches, 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:
12.79 in ø x 33.46 in H
32.5 cm ø x 85 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.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Finnish mid-century design is characterised by simple, elegant forms that Paavo Tynell was a master of. Like Finnish culture, he embraced timeless beauty, sustainability and a deep connection to the natural world. One of his favourite materials to work with was glass, as this set of three ceiling lamps showcases.
This pair embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised 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 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. These lamps have an eye-catching shape thanks to the brass ring detail. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light these lamps emit. These pieces are 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 mid-century period was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as artists 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, with designers who sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's model "A2-7" lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and a unique, but functional design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ceiling lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. There are minor dents and scratches in the copper. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamps may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. These lamps are compatible with E27 standard fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
9.64 in ø x 5.12 in H
24.5 cm ø x 13 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 himself, Tynell’s models were of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as materials.
In the 20th century, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including these model “2028” 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, it was known as Lattimo. At that time, the material was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when it was used as home accents to decorate households. Milk glass was an extremely popular material for lighting fixtures in the 1950s, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this pair demonstrates. To complement the glass, nickel-plated brass mounts attach the shades to the ceiling, offering the lamps a cool tone even when unlit. This model has a gentle, round shape that is just as soft as the light it diffuses. Tynell was a master of working with this material combination, and his milk glass ceiling lamps are some of his most sought-after designs to this day.
The 20th century 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 many sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical, they 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 been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additionally, minor imperfections may be present on the glass due to manufacturing inconsistencies. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
11.81 in Ø x 8.66 in H
30 cm Ø x 22 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
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
“The man who illuminated Finland”, Paavo Tynell is one of the best-known Finnish lighting designers, and his work has had a great influence on modern lighting design in Finland, and internationally.
The best qualities of Tynell's light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design, exemplified by these three model “2008” ceiling lamps. The design of this model is dominated by the opal glass shades supported by the nickel plated brass stems. Tynell’s design merges together a simple and decorative shape with sculptural elements. These lamps have great proportions, the large shades are balanced by the backplates to create the attention-grabbing look. When lit, they create an exceptionally atmospheric light, giving the nickel plated brass a vivid colour as well. Tynell’s designs are marked by a delicacy and softness that reveals his background in fine jewellery, and his most famous forms in lighting echo the structures of nature. Model “2008” is a modernist design to its core with a look that is timeless and can stand out and complement any space.
Idman Oy was started as early as 1897 by Karl Hjalmar Idman. In 1953, Idman Oy, acquired the majority of shares in Taito Oy, the company of Paavo Tynell. Paavo Tynell continued to work for the company on a freelance basis, through his own design firm. In his day, Paavo Tynell’s atmospheric light fixtures attracted attention as far away as the United States.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The metal has some marks and staining. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have additional marks, scratches, and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
8.27 in ∅ x 9.06 in D
21 cm ∅ x 23 cm D
Literature:
Idman Lighting Catalogue 140 – 1950s – Around 1956. p. 26.
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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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
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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 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
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: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is regarded as one of Finland’s pioneering lighting designers, celebrated for his poetic 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 timeless and sophisticated. This hanging lamp, model “1004”, is an exemplary representation of Tynell's artistic vision and technical mastery.
This uniquely decorated hanging lamp was designed in an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models. It was a period of consistency, excellence, and sophistication design wise. Despite its age, this ceiling light has a hint of Art Deco in its design, with sinuous lines and pronounced decorative elements. One of the defining features of 20th century lighting is its marriage of functionality and aesthetics; the era's designers believed that a well-made lighting fixture could serve a practical purpose while also acting as a piece of art, and this lamp is a testament to this sentiment. Moreover, brass was very much one of the most popular materials of the era, and when combined with glass, a sleek shiny look can be created, like this model exemplifies. This material duo makes sense from both a functional and visual standpoint. Not only is brass corrosion-resistant and durable, but it withstands the test of time, developing a beautiful patina as the years go by. Moreover, on the list of decorative elements are the ring on the finial, the rod adorned with a floral element, the curves of the arms, and finally, the way the rod connects to the canopy. These features make this hanging lamp 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 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. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the age and nature of the brass, it may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. The brass is patinated. This lamp is compatible with an E27 standard fitting.
Dimensions:
12.2 in W × 8.1 in D × 27.2 in H
31 cm W x 20.5 cm D x 69 cm H