This “Model 9602” floor lamp, also known as the “Chinese Hat” was originally designed for Hotel Aulanko in Finland by “the man who illuminated Finland”, Paavo Tynell .

The lamp features an interesting play of materials. The base is made of brass, the lampshade is in an off-white fabric, but the most interesting part in term of materials, is undoubtedly the stem, which is covered in cane . The top - that inspired the nickname of this model - has a playful and light quality with a subdued texture in the shade. The brass cap is a simple, yet important design element that gives it a modern look. The top is balanced out by the elegant, but static form of the base. The lamp gives a warm ambient light to any environment.

This version with the flat foot was produced circa the 1950s. The switch box is marked “Taito Oy”, which is the name of Tynell’s own company.

Condition:

Item is in good vintage condition that is consistent with its age and use; paint missing on stem on the inside, rattan has a little wear. Brass foot has a some wear and a dozen dimples. Brass has some weather marks.

Dimensions:

25.6 in Ø x 59.85 in H

65 cm Ø x 152 cm H

Literature:

Idman: Koristevalaisinluettelo ("Idman lighting catalogue"), sales catalogue, Helsinki 1954, n° 136. Similar item, p. 58

"Finland House Lighting: harmony in lighting for harmony in living, original designs by Paavo Tynell",  New York. Similar item, p. 11 and p. 26.

T. Poutasuo, "Paavo Tynell ja Taito Oy", Helsinki, 2005. Similar item, p. 22.

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”.

Tyne 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.