Paavo Tynell Model "1574" Chandelier for Taito, Finland 1930s (sold)


















Paavo Tynell Model "1574" Chandelier for Taito, Finland 1930s (sold)
Paavo Tynell (1890-1973) 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, 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 chandelier, model “1574”, is an exemplary representation of Tynell's artistic vision and technical mastery.
The choice of materials and decorative elements reflects a commitment to both form and function, an ethos deeply ingrained in Finnish design philosophy. Crafted from patinated brass, this chandelier features a delicate frame that has been expertly designed to showcase the four opal glass shades. The upward-facing shades are placed at the end of the arms and have a milky appearance that diffuses the light beautifully, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room. One of the defining features of early 20th century lighting is its marriage of functionality and aesthetics; the era's designers believed that a well-designed lighting fixture could serve a practical purpose while also acting as a piece of art, and this chandelier is a testament to this sentiment. Distinctive in numerous ways, this lamp showcases versatility. Surpassing the strict functionality many designers were concerned with, this model is a whimsical representation of Tynell’s innovative experimentation in lighting design. The rattan wraps around the stem with its textured look contrasting beautifully against the patinated brass and opal shades. This juxtaposition of materials and the gentle glow of the light create an inviting ambiance and is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted design.
From the 1930s and throughout the ’50s, Paavo Tynell was considered Finland’s premier lighting designer, called on to illuminate public spaces across the country. In Helsinki in particular, Tynell’s lighting was part of the fabric of the city. His influence spread abroad, too, with Tynell becoming especially successful in the U.S., where he acquired near-celebrity status as a designer.
SOLD
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 some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies.
Dimensions:
25.19 in W x 21.65 in D x 24.60 in H
64 cm W x 55 cm D x 62.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell was one of Finland’s most important lighting designers and came to be known as the “man who illuminated Finland”, thanks to his notable models. As a master craftsman, his designs combined a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility and an extensive use of glass and brass. His work with Idman followed the company’s acquisition of the majority of shares in Taito Oy in 1953, after which Tynell continued designing on a freelance basis.
This set of four Model “80113” ceiling lamps embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish lighting design of the mid-century period. Tynell’s designs merge together simple shapes and carefully considered materials. Each lamp has an eye-catching, shallow rounded milk glass shade with a broad upper section and a softly curved lower profile. The opaque ivory-white glass conceals the light source while allowing the illumination to spread evenly across the entire shade. The edges are just as soft as the light the lamps emit, giving the glass an organic shape despite the simplicity of the design. Thanks to the concealed ceiling holders, the lamps are flush mounted without any prominent exposed parts other than the glass shades. This keeps the construction visually clean and leaves the attention on the material and the quality of the illumination. When lit, the milk glass produces a warm, atmospheric glow and emphasises the smooth curvature of the shades. Used as a set, the repetition of the same compact form creates an effective rhythm across a ceiling while distributing light over a larger area.
The best qualities of Finnish mid-century light fixtures are their atmospheric glow and disciplined, functional design, and these lamps embody those qualities particularly well. The construction makes them suitable for hallways, bedrooms or rooms with lower ceilings, while the simple glass forms integrate naturally into the surrounding architecture. Combining Tynell’s sensitivity to light with Idman’s Finnish manufacture, the model “80113” lamps offer an elegant example of his more restrained ceiling designs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamps have 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:
9.84 in ø x 4.72 in H
25 cm ø x 12 cm H