“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, but also internationally.

The best qualities of Tynell's light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design, exemplified by these model “2009” ceiling lamps. The design of this pair 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. This pair of lamps have great proportions, the large shades are balanced by the backplates to create the attention-grabbing look. When lit, these lamps create an exceptionally atmospheric light, giving the brass a warm colour as well. Quality control at Tynell’s Oy Taito Ab was perfectly thorough, therefore these lamps are durable and high-quality. This model already appeared in Taito’s #10 catalogue in 1935.

In 1918, Tynell co-founded the metalwork and lighting company Oy Taito Ab, and worked as the company’s CEO and chief designer until 1953. During the 1930s, he designed lighting for various public spaces, such as Helsinki’s Parliament House and the office of the Secretary-General of the United Nations. In his day, Paavo 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 brass has some marks and staining.

Dimensions:

7.08 in W x 8.66 in D x 7.08 in

18 cm W x 22 cm D x 18 cm H

Literature:

Taito Catalogue N#10 - 1935  p. 47

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.