Paavo Tynell Model “2008” Ceiling Light for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s (sold)
















Paavo Tynell Model “2008” Ceiling Light for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s (sold)
“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, as well as internationally.
The best qualities of Tynell's light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design, exemplified by this model “2008” ceiling lamp. This piece is dominated by the opal glass shade supported by the nickel-plated brass base. Tynell’s design merges together a simple and decorative shape with sculptural elements. This lamp has great proportions, the large shade is balanced by the backplate to create the attention-grabbing look. When lit, this lamp creates 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 established 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. The designer continued to work for the company on a freelance basis, through his own firm. In his day, Tynell’s atmospheric light fixtures attracted attention as far away as the United States.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The metal base has some marks and staining.
Dimensions:
9.84 in ⌀ x 9.84 in H
25 cm ⌀ x 25 cm H
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.
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: 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
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell was a pioneering lighting designer whose work in the mid-20th century defined modern Nordic lighting aesthetics. Known for his delicate, poetic approach and innovative use of materials, Tynell created pieces that seamlessly merged function and artistry. His collaborations with Idman in the 1950s resulted in some of his most celebrated designs, exemplified beautifully by this “2008” ceiling lamp.
The best thing about ceiling lamps - besides their stylish look - is that they are a great option to make interiors appear more spacious. They can be used to concentrate light, or to just add an accent to the room. Brass, and in this case nickel-plated brass, was very much one of the most popular materials of the mid-century era, and when combined with glass, a sleek shiny look can be created, like this piece exemplifies. The design’s main point is its effective simplicity, free of any unnecessary ornamentation. The uncluttered look leaves the attention on the materials and on the functionality that the form is in service of. In addition, while the design is quite succinct it still possesses a luxuriously stylish impression. 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 established 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. The designer continued to work for the company on a freelance basis, through his own firm. In his day, 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 item has recently been reconditioned. Item may have some marks, scratches, and imperfections due to manufacturing inconsistencies and the nature and age of the materials.
Dimensions:
12.59 in ø x 14.37 in H
32 cm ø x 36.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 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 material.
In the 20th century, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this 1937 model “2028” milk glass ceiling lamp. This piece 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, a nickel-plated brass mount attaches the shade to the ceiling, offering the lamp a cool sheen even when unlit. This model has a gentle, round shape that is just as soft as the light it diffuses. Milk glass was a popular material for lighting fixtures in the 1950s, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this fixture 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 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 item has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections may be present on the glass due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age of the item.
Dimensions:
7.87 in ø x 5.90 in H
20 cm ø x 15 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 these lamps belong 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 pair of rare milk glass ceiling lamps with the model number “80112-25”. These lamps embody the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised 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 to decorate households as home accents. These lamps have 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 these lamps diffuse. Thanks to the concealed aluminium ceiling holder, these lamps 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 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 present 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 9.05 in H
25 cm Ø x 23 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: 1,000 - 2,500 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.
Before his retirement in 1953, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this rare milk glass ceiling lamp with the model number “2033”. This lamp embodies the sleek aesthetic that characterised Finnish design in the early 20th century. 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. This lamp has a gentle, round shape that is just as soft as the light it diffuses. Milk glass was a popular material for lighting fixtures in the 1930s and beyond, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light. As this ceiling lamp demonstrates, it was also prized for its lustrous, opaque finish, which gives this lamp a sophisticated and refined look. 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 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 “2033” ceiling lamp model embodies these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and an elegant yet functional design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
11.81 in Ø x 5.51 in H
30 cm Ø x 14 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: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell - the “man who illuminated Finland” - was a pioneer of modern lighting. Born in 1890, the invention of lightbulbs preceded him by only a few years, and with his notable vision for design Tynell was one of the first to innovate electric lighting internationally. A master craftsman himself, his work drew inspiration from a traditional aesthetic with a modern design sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass.
Finland gaining their independence in 1917 brought on a renewed sense of identity, which developed a prime dialogue with nature - evident in the emerging trends of the early 20th century. Finnish modern design places at its core the inventive use of lighting and the incorporation of natural elements. There is an emphasis on clean lines, geometric shapes, and a focus on practicality. With this pair of ceiling lights lies a focus on both simplicity and functionality; the rounded opal glass shades are reminiscent of water droplets, accentuating their organic design. They are a subtle addition to a space that glows with a warm gentle light, adding to the overall cozy atmosphere of any interior. The shades are made out of opal glass, a popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-century era due in part to its ability to soften light. It is also prized for its smooth, opaque finish, giving these lamps an overall sophisticated and refined look.
In 1918, Tynell co-founded the first lighting manufacturing company in Finland: Taito Oy. The company was founded by a small group of highly-skilled craftsmen that helped build its international success. The founders include Paavo Tynell’s former tutor and fellow designer Eric Ehrström, goldsmith Frans Nykänen, sculptor Emil Wickström, and investor Gösta Serlachius. Although Paavo Tynell was one of the principal designers, other famous Finnish designers collaborated with Taito Oy, such as Alvar Aalto, Henry Ericsson, and Ville Vallgren. Taito Oy grew to become a trendsetter for the Finnish lighting industry, and eventually to have a worldwide influence on international design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired.
Dimensions:
12.01 in Ø x 4.92 in H
30.5 cm Ø x 12.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell, a leading figure in Finnish design, was known for his innovative work in the field of lighting during the mid-20th century. As a co-founder of the renowned manufacturer Taito, established in the 1930s, Tynell brought a unique sensibility to lighting design, blending modernist forms with traditional Finnish craftsmanship. His work often emphasized natural materials and simple, elegant forms, with an eye toward functionality and beauty.
These particular ceiling lights by Tynell are simple in their form, featuring opal glass shades that provide a soft, diffused light. The glass itself has a smooth, almost frosted appearance that evokes a sense of warmth and subtle sophistication. Each shade is delicately tapered, creating a fluid and graceful silhouette that stands in harmony with the simplicity of the design. The roundness of the glass shades add a natural, fluid element to the lights, while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic Tynell was known for. The shades are anchored by a concealed aluminum ceiling holder, which helps secure the pieces. The flush mount design maintains the light's minimalist quality, ensuring that nothing distracts from the soft illumination and elegant form. These lights are versatile, fitting comfortably into a variety of spaces, whether installed as a group or placed individually. Their simple yet sophisticated look brings a sense of timelessness that complements a variety of spaces.
Paavo Tynell's creative designs played a significant role in defining Taito's reputation for producing some of the most sought-after lighting fixtures of the time. Tynell’s designs remain influential, reflecting the Finnish aesthetic that values both practicality and understated elegance.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
8.27 in Ø x 10.63 in H
21 cm Ø x 27 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 inspired by a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material. With an outstanding sense of proportions and balance of shape and form, this model showcases the masterful work of the designers at Taito during the 20th century.
Tynell’s designs in the ceiling lamp series that these lamps belong to merge together simple shapes and sculptural elements. In the 1930s through the 1950s, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this pair of milk glass ceiling lamps with the model number “2040”. These lamps 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 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 decorative home accents. These lamps have an eye-catching bucket shape that has a strong presence sticking out - quite literally. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light these lamps emit. Thanks to the concealed aluminium ceiling holder, these lamps 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 designers like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques. Taito Oy grew to become a trendsetter for the Finnish lighting industry, and eventually to have a worldwide influence on international design. With their ideas in mind, there was a strong emphasis on simplicity and functionality, as designers sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's present 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 9.84 in H
25 cm Ø x 25 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