Hans-Agne Jakobsson "Patricia T372/12" Chandelier for Markaryd, Sweden 1960s
































Hans-Agne Jakobsson "Patricia T372/12" Chandelier for Markaryd, Sweden 1960s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This marvellous, brass twelve-light chandelier was created in what we now call “the golden age of Scandinavian design”. Hans-Agne Jakobsson was the great Swedish master of lighting, designing some of the most recognizable mid-century modern lamps of Scandinavia.
Known as model ‘T372/12’, this twelve-shade lamp is immediately recognizable thanks to its characteristics. Standing out the most are the twelve, amber-coloured glass shades that are equally mesmerizing whether the light is on or off. Similarly to his other models, the design clearly shows the Swedish designer’s studies in architecture, with beautiful geometric forms and symmetry dominating the structure. The brass structure is held by a single, vertical brass pole. Attached to the main pole are twelve, symmetrically arranged poles with a shade on each end. What makes this model distinctive is the arrangement and shape of the individual poles: the six shades on the lower level are held by curving poles with brass candelabra sockets. The second level holds the six shades that are arranged between the lower shades. As a result of the close arrangement of the shades and the brass structures, the chandelier seems to “glow” when lit, creating a dazzling effect. This model has all the characteristics Jakobsson was famous for; it is elegant and stylish, and while the design allows it to be big and shiny, it never becomes tacky.
Like most of Jakobsson’s mid-century designs, this softly glowing, glare-free “Patricia” chandelier was inspired by the "organic modern" approaches of Danish lighting master, Poul Henningsen and Finnish icon, Alvar Aalto. Jakobsson was famed for his imaginative light fixtures, which utilize unique angles and materials to create a soft quality of light. With a background in cabinetmaking and the world of architecture, shaping light with the use of materials and colours came naturally to him. This ceiling lamp was created at his own famed workshop in Markaryd, Sweden.
Condition:
In vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small scratches and marks on the brass.
Dimensions:
19.69 in W x 22.83 in D x 32.68 in H
50 cm W x 58 cm D x 83 cm H
About the designer:
Born in 1919 in Gotland, Sweden, Hans Agne Jakobsson is one of the most well-known Swedish lighting designers. He did his carpenter apprenticeship before studying architecture in Gothenburg.
First working as an industrial designer for General Motors, he later founded his own company after being an assistant to the designers Carl Malmsten and Werner West. In 1950, due to Christmas, he added a model of hanging lamps in small strips of pine in one of his stores to soften the lively lighting of the shop window. The people who were passing by were immediately seduced by this hanging lamp, which started it all. He established his own company in 1951: Hans Agne Jakobsson AB and began producing this model in his factories and achieved success abroad as well. In 50 years, he designed more than 2000 lamps with unique designs.
He used materials and experimented with multiple techniques, for example using fabrics with fringes, blown glass of colour and smoked glass. His great diversity resulted in a wide range of timeless lighting models. These pieces continue to seduce design lovers, as they adapt themselves to any interior, without blending into the background.
Today, Jakobsson’s works can be found in private homes as well as public institutions throughout Sweden. The designer passed away in 2009 in Sweden, leaving behind a great legacy. ~H.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
By the 1950s, Finland had established itself as a force for innovation in design. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist form that is not short of unique decorative elements.
This elegant, sculptural lamp is a distinctive piece exemplifying Finland’s artistic design language. In addition to the aesthetic dimension, the quality of the lamp is also true to it's Finnish heritage; it is a testament to the era's emphasis on proportionality and aesthetic balance. This chandelier features a delicate frame that has been expertly designed to showcase the five glass shades and the curved arms in a multilayered cluster. The upward-facing glass shades are placed at the end of the three 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 mid-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. Moreover, 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 model exemplifies. This material duo makes sense from both a functional and visual standpoint. Not only is brass corrosion-resistant and durable, but it withstands the test of time, developing a beautiful patina as the years go by.
This stunning mid-20th century chandelier was made at the esteemed company, Idman Oy. Established in 1936 in Turku, Finland, Idman Oy was renowned for its exceptional metalwork and craftsmanship. This chandelier’s expert craftsmanship and unique character make it a timeless evidence of the golden age of mid-century Finnish lighting design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chandelier has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
13 in W x 13 in D x 19.30 in H
33 cm W x 33 cm D x 49 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell is widely regarded as one of the defining figures of Finnish lighting design in the twentieth century, known for his ability to merge metal craftsmanship with a refined, sense of form. As the founder and leading designer of Taito Oy, and later through his collaboration with Idman, Tynell developed lighting fixtures that combined technical precision with decorative lightness.
Model “K1-12” reflects the designer’s characteristic approach of pairing elegant materials with a carefully balanced composition. This chandelier combines brass and glass, and is defined by its graceful, radial structure and the interplay between solidity and delicacy. The central brass body extends outward with gently curving arms, each supporting an opaline glass shade. The shades diffuse the light evenly, creating a warm and inviting glow. The brass frame provides both structure and visual rhythm, with each arm contributing to a balanced, symmetrical composition. Suspended from the stem are small decorative crystal elements, which introduce a subtle sense of movement and catch the light in a delicate manner. This detail adds a layer of ornamentation without disrupting the overall clarity of the design. The combination of polished brass and matte glass is central to the chandelier’s character: the metal reflects and amplifies light, while the glass softens it. The proportions are carefully thought-out, allowing the chandelier to function as both a source of illumination and a focal point.
What distinguishes this model is the way it incorporates decorative elements within a timeless look. This balance gives the piece a distinctive presence without making it overly ornate. As such, it stands as a strong example of Tynell’s ability to elevate functional lighting into a carefully composed object.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
37.79 in ⌀ x 15.75 in H
96 cm ⌀ x 40 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Scandinavian lighting design in the 1950s was shaped by a careful balance between functional clarity and decoration. In Finland especially, manufacturers such as Sievä Oy contributed to this development by producing luminaires that combined traditional craftsmanship with emerging modernist elements. Based in Helsinki, Sievä Oy created lighting for both domestic interiors and public spaces, often working with materials like brass and opaline glass to achieve a warm, atmospheric quality of light.
While Finnish modernism is often associated with restraint, pieces like this chandelier demonstrate how designers also embraced subtle ornamentation, integrating expressive details within the composition. This ornamental model is defined by its elegant five-arm construction and the harmonious relationship between its materials. The polished brass frame forms the structure of the piece, with a central stem extending downward into the arms. These arms branch outward in a balanced, curved form, each supporting a rounded opaline glass shade. The glass shades emit a warm glow, while their form introduces a sense of softness that contrasts with the sleek metalwork. Small decorative floral details adorn the stem, offering the construction a unique charm. Brass, the material of choice for many mid-century lighting pieces, catches the light, creating a layered illumination that is both functional and atmospheric. The proportions are carefully considered, with the compact cluster of shades balanced by the slender stem above.
Rather than relying on excess ornament, this chandelier merges decorative elements with a clear structure. This approach reflects a broader tendency in Finnish mid-century design, where elaborate pieces maintain a sense of restraint and cohesion. Today, ceiling lamps by Sievä Oy are appreciated for this balance, offering both sculptural presence and practical illumination.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. Minor marks on the decorative elements. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
18.50 in ø x 27.17 in H
47 cm ø x 69 cm H
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
These marvellous chandeliers are a rarity from Swedish designer, Holger Johansson, who created them for his own company, Westal. With a brass frame holding 12 translucent bubble glass shades, grandiose and stylish are the words to describe these models by.
Each chandelier has a brass frame consisting of a long, straight brass pole holding 12 shades arranged on three levels; three on the top and bottom, and six on the middle level. This airy arrangement allows the glass spheres to stand out without making the design look cluttered. The shades each sit at the end of a curved brass pole and face upwards unlike most other models from Johansson, making this particular model stand out in the designer’s impressive repertoire. Thanks to the arrangement of the brass poles and bulbs, the chandeliers divide the light over three levels, illuminating their surroundings in golden light. When switched on, the light coming from the shades brighten the yellow brass and highlight the glass bubbles beautifully. Commonly associated with old glass, the modern bubble glass techniques consist of intentionally creating bubbles for artistic effect. Controlled bubble glass as seen here, also known as “Bolle” or “Bullicante”, is glass that’s embedded with bubbles. The chandeliers’ manufacturer, the Swedish company Westal, is a historic company founded by Holger Johansson in 1947, the same year the first TV test broadcast happened in Sweden. These chandeliers have all the characteristics Johansson was famous for: they are elegant and stylish and while the design allows them to be big and shiny, they never become tacky.
The best qualities of Swedish mid-century designers’ light fixtures are most often their atmospheric light, disciplined, functionalist design completed by unique solutions and design elements. Exemplified by these chandeliers, these qualities are not only timeless, but also ever so eye-catching.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.The brass has some minor marks and scratches.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W x 27.95 in D x 56.1 in H
74 cm W x 71 cm D x 142.5 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
By the 1950s, Finland had firmly established itself as a force for innovation in design. The most distinctive qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their functionalist form that is not short of subtle decorative elements, adding a cozy, atmospheric glow.
Not only were Finnish models beautifully decorated, the ornamental elements were also quite distinctive compared to other European models. With its iconic mid-century design, this 'ER 68/6' chandelier effortlessly captures the essence of the era's aesthetic, marrying form and function in a timeless piece that complements both modern and vintage interiors alike. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the 'ER 68/6' chandelier boasts a sleek brass frame that exudes understated elegance. Its graceful silhouette features six opal glass shades delicately nestled within the brass frame, casting a soft, inviting glow that transforms any room into a sanctuary of style and ambiance.
The chandelier's design is a testament to the mid-century aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and a harmonious balance of materials. Its timeless appeal makes it a versatile addition to a variety of interior styles.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The brass has a beautiful patina. Shades are a later replacement.
Dimensions:
24.8 in ⌀ x 24.61 in H
63 cm ⌀ x 62.5 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Tommaso Barbi drew from botanical forms, using brass and layered metalwork to create lighting that resembled branches, leaves, or flowering arrangements suspended in space. This chandelier in the manner of Barbi transforms lighting into something atmospheric and sculptural rather than purely functional.
This chandelier adopts the organic approach through an intricate arrangement of swirling metal foliage radiating outward from the central structure. The leaves overlap in multiple tiers, each one shaped with softly curved edges and surfaces that catch the light differently across the composition. Rather than forming a rigid symmetrical frame, the elements extend outward with a sense of movement, giving the fixture the appearance of falling leaves gathered around the exposed bulbs. The warm metallic finish amplifies this effect, reflecting both direct light and softer ambient glow across the textured brass coloured surfaces. Viewed from below, the chandelier is layered and dramatic, with the leaves creating shifting shadows and depth throughout the piece. The branching arms remain partially visible between the foliage, reinforcing the impression of a natural structure without blocking the light.
Despite its scale and ornamentation, the chandelier avoids feeling heavy because of the openness between the leaves and the irregularity of the composition. The result is highly unique yet still refined, combining the qualities associated with mid-century Italian lighting with a more expressive, sculptural interpretation of natural forms.
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E14 fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
31.49 in W x 27.55 in D x 19.68 in H
80 cm W x 70 cm D x 50 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
By the mid-20th century, Finland had emerged as a quiet force in modern design, defined not by spectacle but by sensitivity to light, material, and atmosphere. Finnish designers often pursued a dialogue between illumination and interior space. Among the most influential voices in this movement was Gunnel Nyman, a pioneer of modern glass design who collaborated with manufacturers such as Idman.
This model “51132/5” chandelier, demonstrates the grace of the Finnish design philosophy in physical form. Five opaline glass shades are poised on sloping brass arms, each softly rounded in an almost ethereal manner. The glass is warm in tone, diffusing light into a mellow, atmospheric radiance that evokes candlelight more than harsh illumination. The brass structure, polished yet reserved, forms continuous elliptical curves that hold the globes and create a gentle sense of motion within the circular frame. Suspended from a slender stem, the chandelier maintains a weightless balance. The interplay of brass and opal glass, a signature of Finnish lighting, produces a visual rhythm that shifts with every viewpoint. There is no excessive flourish, but rather timeless charm and appreciation for quality materials.
Gunnel Nyman helped shape a uniquely Finnish approach to lighting, where the purpose of a lamp was not only to shine, but to dictate atmosphere. Even decades later, this chandelier resonates with a modern interior just as it would have in a 1950s salon.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned. The brass has a beautiful patina. Due to the nature of the materials, item may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additionally, imperfections on the glass shades may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age of the item.
Dimensions:
20.47 in ø x 31.88 in H
52 cm ø x 81 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This rare "ER 106/3" pendant lamp model was designed during the 1950s, an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models. Design wise, it was a period of consistency, excellence, and sophistication. Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was a small, (then) lesser known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities inspired mainly by Paavo Tynell.
By the 1950s Finland had established itself as a force for innovation in design. The best qualities of Finnish light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design that is not short of subtle decorative elements. This model shares the characteristic perforated brass shade holders as the brass chandelier models designed by Mauri Almari for Itsu. The vertical hollow lines enhance the shape of the shade holders and also serve as one of the main decorative elements of the design. The main decorative element however, remains the delightfully distinctive cluster shaped like a globe where the three arms meet. Their elongated ends seemingly pierce through the cluster ending in small “spikes”. The precisely measured geometry is palpable in this model, which is especially evident when inspected from beneath. The three symmetrically arranged arms each hold a frosted glass shade in a classic bell shape. Cleverly, the shade holders mirror their shape to create a balanced look. This model utilises the mid-century era’s popular combination of brass and glass; the elongated bell shape of the shades shows off the frosted glass and the play of shadows it creates when the light is lit. Accentuating these shapes is the polished brass that features a nice patina. Overall, the composition of the shapes and clever decorative elements give this pendant lamp pair a personality that isn’t loud but still stands out, which is an essentially Finnish design virtue. The refined work and unique aesthetic of Finnish lighting designers has made their creations increasingly valued by collectors in the know.
As this pair of “ER 106/3” lamps showcases, this type of ceiling fixture adds a fantastic layer of lighting to any ambiance. It elevates the design and décor of any interior space, while also providing effective illumination in terms of ambient or accent lighting.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The brass has a beautiful patina.
Dimensions:
16.92 in W x 15.35 in D x 30.31 in H
43 cm W x 39 cm D x 77 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Design wise the 1970s may conjure images of wood surfaces, plush sofas, warm bright shades, and patterned wallpapers. In Finland, it was also an era of streamlined lighting design, with a sculptural appearance, geometric shapes, and shiny details defining the features of 70s lighting.
This graceful and stylish ceiling lamp has a classic look at first sight, but upon closer inspection, it reveals its modern structure and mature elegance. Round, soft curves are common in the design of the era, also observable in the arms and spherical shades of this “923/5” model. While the 70s also saw a pop of colour (think about Verner Panton), but also a sense of nostalgia for traditional looks, including the classic Finnish pairing of brass and glass. From the curved arms stemming from the round canopy, to its decorative middle part and large glass shades, this model brings back the mid-century era in its appearance and materials. Furniture, glass, and ceramics have been traditionally strong areas of Finnish design and this ceiling light unites the former two in its flowing lines, functionality, and materials. Thanks to the arrangement of the five spheres, the light is even, highlighting the beautiful surface of the milky glass. While not much is known about Hyval, the Finnish domestic company, their rare lighting designs all exude a stylish venture into experimentations with glass. What unites the manufacturer’s models are quality and a clear appreciation of past styles and experiences.
It is easy to dismiss the 1970s as “the decade that taste forgot”. In reality, the decorative qualities stemming from the early 20th century art movements and the simple lines deriving from the inter-war art movements all shaped the decade’s unique aesthetic. This lamp’s lovely glass shades and elegant flowing lines of brass show the decade’s more nostalgic side, inspired by mid-century modernism.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The brass body has a beautiful patina with some marks.
Dimensions:
17.32 in ⌀ x 14.17 in H
44 cm ⌀ x 36 cm H
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
This marvellous, brass twelve-light chandelier was created in what we now call “the golden age of Scandinavian design”. Hans-Agne Jakobsson was the great Swedish master of lighting, designing some of the most recognizable mid-century modern lamps of Scandinavia. This incredible chandelier is no exception.
Known as model ‘T372/24’, this twenty four-shade lamp is immediately recognizable thanks to its characteristics. Standing out the most are the 24, amber-coloured glass shades that are equally mesmerizing whether the light is on or off. Similarly to his other models, the design clearly shows the Swedish designer’s studies in architecture, with beautiful geometric forms and symmetry dominating the structure. The brass structure is held by a single, vertical brass pole. Attached to the main pole are the 24, symmetrically arranged poles with a shade on each end. What makes this model distinctive is the arrangement and shape of the individual poles: the shades on the lower level are held by curving poles with brass candelabra sockets. The second level holds the shades that are arranged between the lower shades and a final, third level has the shades arranged in the same way. As a result of the close arrangement of the shades and the brass structure, the chandelier seems to “glow” when lit, creating a dazzling effect. This model has all the characteristics Jakobsson was famous for; it is elegant and stylish, and while the design allows it to be big and shiny, it never becomes tacky.
Like most of Jakobsson’s mid-century designs, this softly glowing, glare-free “Patricia” chandelier was inspired by the "organic modern" approaches of Danish lighting master, Poul Henningsen and Finnish icon, Alvar Aalto. Jakobsson was famed for his imaginative light fixtures, which utilize unique angles and materials to create a soft quality of light. With a background in cabinetmaking and the world of architecture, shaping light with the use of materials and colours came naturally to him. This ceiling lamp was created at his own famed workshop in Markaryd, Sweden.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small scratches and marks on the brass.
Dimensions:
33.46 in ⌀ (without the shades) x 36.61 in H
85 cm ⌀ (without the shades) x 93 cm H
About the designer:
Born in 1919 in Gotland, Sweden, Hans Agne Jakobsson is one of the most well-known Swedish lighting designers. He did his carpenter apprenticeship before studying architecture in Gothenburg.
First working as an industrial designer for General Motors, he later founded his own company after being an assistant to the designers Carl Malmsten and Werner West. In 1950, due to Christmas, he added a model of hanging lamps in small strips of pine in one of his stores to soften the lively lighting of the shop window. The people who were passing by were immediately seduced by this hanging lamp, which started it all. He established his own company in 1951: Hans Agne Jakobsson AB and began producing this model in his factories and achieved success abroad as well. In 50 years, he designed more than 2000 lamps with unique designs.
He used materials and experimented with multiple techniques, for example using fabrics with fringes, blown glass of colour and smoked glass. His great diversity resulted in a wide range of timeless lighting models. These pieces continue to seduce design lovers, as they adapt themselves to any interior, without blending into the background.
Today, Jakobsson’s works can be found in private homes as well as public institutions throughout Sweden. The designer passed away in 2009 in Sweden, leaving behind a great legacy. ~H.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell 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 Oy, 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 1443/5, is an exemplary representation of Tynell's artistic vision and technical mastery.
The chandelier features five gracefully curved brass arms radiating from a central structure, each ending in a rose-tinted glass shade. The combination of brass and softly coloured glass creates a warm, inviting glow that diffuses beautifully, emphasizing Tynell’s commitment to atmospheric light. The fluid arrangement of the arms gives the piece a natural elegance, echoing organic forms found in nature. The central brass rod is long and sleek, extending upward to a simple ceiling canopy, creating a balanced silhouette that is both light and sculptural. Every detail, from the subtle curvature of the arms to the delicately shaped glass shades, demonstrates Paavo Tynell’s focus on craftsmanship and his ability to transform functional lighting into artful design. Bold, yet refined, this piece of interior decor encompasses the mastery of 20th century Finnish light.
This chandelier would serve as a stunning focal point in any space, lending a timeless Nordic charm. With its harmonious shape and blend of materials, it is evident why Paavo Tynell was nicknamed the “man who illuminated Finland”.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
21.65 in Ø x 30.31 in H
55 cm Ø x 77 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 when 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. 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.
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.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
It is simply impossible to talk about 20th century Finnish lighting design without mentioning Paavo Tynell. Widely referred to as “The Man who Illuminated Finland”, Tynell not only founded Oy Taito AB, he also founded an unmistakeable aesthetic and created hundreds of individual lighting models.
His world-renowned and often extremely rare works are mostly formed from perforated and polished brass, however, his early lamps had a chandelier inspired design and during the 1920s, the use of glass became an increasingly important part of his lamps. This model is special for a number of reasons besides its rarity. Firstly, the material: Tynell mostly only used wrought iron in the earlier phase of his career, designing richly decorated chandeliers that preceded the modernist movement’s widespread influence. Secondly, like many of his creations, this “1709” model might have been a one-off, designed for a specific place. Thirdly, very few of his iron models were paired with glass shades. Here, the upward facing glass shades are placed at the end of the four arms. Their gently rounded shape and colour stand out beautifully against the black iron and the richly decorated body. On the list of decorative elements are the ring on the finial, the rod adorned with floral elements, the curves of the arms, and finally, the way the rod connects to the canopy. These features make this chandelier an early example of Tynell’s expressiveness that drew inspiration from previous design movements and eras.
Tynell was a master of peculiar decorative elements that never feel tacky or excessive and this is mainly thanks to his great sense of balance. In 1918 Tynell founded Oy Taito AB, which eventually became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This rare chandelier model from the 1930s can easily draw all the attention while not compromising on quality and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
23.23 in Ø x 29.13 in H
59 cm Ø x 74 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”.
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.