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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation in design. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design that is not short of unique elements. These wall lamps were manufactured by Itsu, or Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), a small, then lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities.

This pair stands as evidence to the era's minimalist aesthetic. These wall lamps are not only embodiment’s of simplicity and elegance, showcasing a design ethos that continues to captivate admirers today, but also illustrate how simple design can be so ingenious and expressive at the same time. The modernistic look of this pair is achieved through the simple yet smart silhouette. The look is almost industrial, yet has the edge of early mid-century modernism. The rounded shape of these lamps is very effective in highlighting the opal glass and the copper reflectors. The mix of materials is a classic example of the contrast and harmony that Finnish design often seeks to achieve. Beyond the structural aspects, the copper’s aesthetic charm is undeniable; its rich patina and finish transform ordinary interiors into elegant and rich spaces. Furthermore, Finnish designers’ powerful abilities as architects are reflected in many of the lighting designs of the era, including this pair. They are a stylish representation of mature modernism that the Nordic country has been a master of since the 19th century.

Overall, the composition of the shapes and materials give these lamps a personality that isn’t loud but still stands out. The impression of this pair is fresh with a retro touch, sure to bring interest to any area in need of decor as a piece of design history.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Minor dents and scratches are present. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

8.46 in W × 13.19 in D × 7.48 in H

21.5 cm W x 33.5 cm D x 19 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

This stunning 1940s ceiling lamp pair was designed by Gunnel Nyman and produced by the esteemed company, Idman Oy. Established at the end of the 19th century in Finland, Idman Oy was renowned for its exceptional metalwork and craftsmanship, gained a reputation for producing high-quality furniture and lighting pieces that embodied the principles of functionality and aesthetic simplicity. These Model “81003” lamps are a shining example of their dedication to these values that still stand strong today.

Suspended from slender, elegant nickel-plated brass rods and finished with minimalist metal caps, the rounded shades float gracefully. The pendant lamps feature opal or milk glass, perfect for diffusing the light in an elegant manner. The 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 their timeless shape, these lamps have maintained their appeal over decades, blending perfectly into various interior styles, from mid-century modern to contemporary spaces. In the 1940s, Idman played a pivotal role in shaping the Finnish design landscape. The company developed an impressive portfolio of iconic pieces that continue to be cherished today.

Although Gunnel Nyman’s career was cut short by an untimely death, she had time enough to give a new direction to Finnish glass design. This model, with its blend of materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless design, remains a testament to the company's dedication to creating objects of enduring beauty.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the lamps may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

Lamp 1:

9.84 in ø × 32.68 in H

25 cm ø x 83 cm H

Lamp 2:

9.84 in ø × 26.77 in H

25 cm ø x 68 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 chandelier has recently been reconditioned. 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

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

This table lamp is a masterful display of modern Scandinavian design’s sensibility and craftsmanship. Crafted in the mid-20th century, it captures the elegant interplay of form and function that defined Finnish lighting design of the era. The lamp showcases the masterful mix of traditional materials and skill that sets its era’s craftsmanship apart.

The lamp’s defining feature is its distinctive brass structure. The brass has a warm, polished finish that reflects light beautifully, adding a touch of sophistication to any space. The lamp’s unique look is solidified by the striking custom made shade, which is carefully composed of thin wooden strips arranged in a rhythmic, vertical pattern. This natural material creates a beautiful effect, allowing the light to diffuse when the lamp is lit, creating an inviting atmosphere. The shade’s organic texture contrasts beautifully with the sleek brass frame, highlighting the Nordic appreciation for natural materials and honest construction. The round brass base anchors the piece, providing both stability and a refined, minimal foundation.

Whether used as a statement piece on a side table or as an accent on a console, this Finnish table lamp offers both sculptural beauty and practical illumination. It embodies the spirit of Nordic design through its balanced use of metal and wood, meticulous detailing, and a form that feels timeless and distinctly modern.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shade is a later replacement. Some minor marks and scratches on the brass. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

9.45 in ø x 14.96 in H

24 cm ø x 38 cm H

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was a small, lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities. By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation in design. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures’ are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design that is not shorn of subtle decorative elements. This brass and opal wall lamp represents an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models.

This wall lamp utilises the mid-century era’s popular combination of brass and glass; the elongated bell shaped shades create a play of shadows and show off the frosted glass when its two light points are lit. The pairing of the bell shaped shades and long stems create a tulip-like silhouette. Accentuating these shapes is the polished brass that features a nice patina. Overall, the composition of the “tulips” and clever decorative elements give this wall lamp a personality that isn’t loud but still stands out, which is an essential Finnish design virtue. The refined and unique work of Finnish lighting designers has made their creations increasingly valued by collectors in the know.

Finnish mid-century design is celebrated for its minimalist sophistication, organic feel, and impeccable attention to detail. These characteristics are perfectly captured in this wall lamp, making it a wonderful addition to an array of interiors.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.

Dimensions:

9.45 in W × 4.53 in D × 22.05 in H

24 cm W x 11.5 cm D x 56 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was a small, lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities. Itsu stands as a beacon of innovation in mid-century modern design. This lamp represents an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models.

The form of this pair is built around an opal glass diffuser that has a slightly conical and rounded profile that gives it subtle depth without becoming visually heavy. With its sleek and simple aesthetic, and in the absence of heavy ornamentation, the emphasis falls on materials. The use of opal glass is central to the design. The diffuser softens the glow and disperses it, creating a more ambient and balanced illumination. The relatively small diameter and shallow projection also means they can be used in tighter spaces without disrupting the proportions of the room. 

The 20th century was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as makers 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 this pair demonstrates. As designers 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 recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. These lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.

Dimensions:

15.75 in ø x 6.69 in H

40 cm ø x 17 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

It is simply impossible to talk about 20th century lighting without mentioning Finland. By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their atmospheric glow and disciplined, functionalist design that is not short of subtle decorative elements, as this ceiling lamp exemplifies.

Designers working in Finland during the mid-20th century aimed to create lighting that felt modern without becoming cold or overly industrial. Clean silhouettes were combined with warm materials such as brass, wood, and woven elements in order to soften architectural interiors. Rather than relying on excess, emphasis was placed on structure, balance, and the way light interacted with surfaces. The goal was to produce fixtures that served both as functional light sources and as design statements within a room. This ceiling lamp model is made of delicate wooden slats which allow the light to shine through, while giving the fixture a subtle sense of organic texture and symmetry. The material introduces depth and visual warmth, softly diffusing the glow while contrasting with the texture of the smooth brass. The model remains elegant and refined, with a central brass element beneath the shade further offering visual interest to the composition. When turned on, the lamp produces an even and inviting light that works well above a dining table, in a living room, or in a more intimate sitting area. Its proportions make it suitable for a range of interiors, while the combination of brass and organic material ensures versatility.

In the mid-20th century, Idman Oy played a pivotal role in shaping the Finnish design landscape. The company collaborated with renowned designers and artists, resulting in a portfolio of iconic pieces that continue to be cherished today. This model - with its blend of materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless design - remains a testament to the company's dedication to creating objects of enduring beauty.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the lamp has some marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

16.34 in ø × 13.39 in H

41.5 cm ø x 34 cm H

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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur

Gunnel Nyman (19 September 1909 – 7 October 1948) was a Finnish glass and metal artist, and one of the founders of modern Finnish glass design. She was also an advocate of early mass-produced glassware. Nyman's glassware is exhibited internationally in museums.

This “80115” ceiling lamp embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish design in the 1950s. 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 for home accents to decorate households. This lamp has an eye-catching blunted cone shape, with the edges just as soft as the light it diffuses. Thanks to the concealed ceiling holder, the lamp is flush mounted without any exposed parts other than the glass shade. Nyman considered material an essential factor in design, to the point that - in her opinion - each object had only one material that it could be made from. Form, proportion and decoration were only there to enhance the properties inherent in the material. The Finnish design blueprint that was set during the first few decades of the 1900s is based on characteristics that can be traced in this lamp model: functionality, an understated, unornamented design created from high quality materials - and most importantly, by a skilled craftsperson.

Although Gunnel Nyman’s career was cut short by an untimely death, she had time enough to give a new direction to Finnish glass design. Her work foreshadowed the work of the 1950s and 1960s Finnish glass designers. At the Milan Triennial in 1951, Nyman was awarded gold medal for glass posthumously.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ceiling lamp has recently been reconditioned. There are minor dents and scratches in the metal. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

9.84 in ø x 8.66 in H

25 cm ø x 22 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: 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: 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 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.