Paavo Tynell Model "2025" Ceiling Lamp for Idman, Finland ca 1930s (sold)

















Paavo Tynell Model "2025" Ceiling Lamp for Idman, Finland ca 1930s (sold)
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 1937 model “2025” 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 material, the shade features a bold geometric shape, representing the main visual point of interest. A nickel-plated mount connects the shade to the ceiling, offering the lamp a cool sheen even when unlit. The ceiling mount shows once again the designer’s attention to detail, introducing a somewhat stepped element for added visual quality. 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 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 masters 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 like this model “2025” lamp, that were both beautiful and practical, they left an unforgettable mark in the history of light and ambiance.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Imperfections on the glass may be present due to age and manufacturing inconsistencies. Due to the nature and age of the metal, the lamp may have some marks and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
7.87 in W x 7.87 in D x 10.03 in H
20 cm W x 20 cm D x 25.5 cm H
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell was one of the central figures in the development of modern Finnish lighting. Trained as a metalworker, he co-founded the company Taito Oy in 1918, where he served as managing director and chief designer for several decades. By the 1930s, Tynell was designing lighting for major architectural projects and working alongside figures such as Alvar Aalto, developing an approach in which precise metalwork, simple forms and carefully diffused light came together.
Model “7239” is composed around cylindrical opal glass shades suspended from compact nickel-plated metal structures. Each fixture begins with a circular wall plate, from which a short arm projects horizontally before bending downward at a clean right angle toward the shade. This simple curve gives the lamps a clear architectural profile, while the reflective metal introduces a sharp contrast against the softly luminous glass. The shades have an elongated cylindrical form with gently rounded corners, through which light passes evenly thanks to the opal glass. When lit, the shades turn into warm glowing volumes while keeping the bulb concealed. A shallow metal cap closes the upper part of each shade and visually connects it to the arm above, giving the fixture a particularly resolved transition between glass and metal. The proportions are carefully controlled: the round backplate echoes the width of the shade without competing with it, while the short projecting arm holds the glass just far enough from the wall for its full shape to remain visible.
Seen as a pair, the repeated circles, curved arms and vertical glass forms create a strong rhythm. These model “7239” lamps are particularly effective beside a bed, a mirror or artwork, or arranged along a hallway, as they are perfect for adding warmth without dominating the space.
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 have minor marks, scratches, chips 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:
5.51 in W x 9.64 in D x 11.81 in H
14 cm W x 24.5 cm D x 30 cm H