Paavo Tynell "80112-25" Milk Glass Ceiling Light for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s











Paavo Tynell "80112-25" Milk Glass Ceiling Light for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s
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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.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish Modern is an era that defined an essential chapter in design history. Denmark was placed on the world map for its groundbreaking craftsmanship and mid-century modern furniture. This wall lamp displays some of the essential ideals of the style: streamlined modernism accompanied by a functional, timeless design with decorative elements.
This wall lamp features a dynamic brass body that extends outward to hold a stunning glass shade. This wall lamp reflects the danish modern philosophy through its graceful lines, adjustable construction, and thoughtful use of natural materials. The model unfolds through a series of elegant bends that give the brass arm a distinct visual quality. Extending confidently from the wall, the articulated arm allows the light to be positioned with flexibility while creating a striking linear composition. Rather than opting for a classic fabric shade, the designer chose glass as a material. The milky glass contrasts beautifully with the polished brass structure. The shade filters the light, producing a soft, atmospheric glow that enhances the comforting character of the design. Every transition between horizontal and vertical lines feels effortless, revealing the Danish remarkable ability to transform a functional mechanism into something sculptural.
Today we consider the mid-century era a golden age for Scandinavian design and craftsmanship. During these decades, some of the country's most significant luminaires were made, including this exceptional wall sconce.
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 has some marks, scratches, 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:
9.05 in W x 31.1 in D x 9.44 in H
23 cm W x 79 cm D x 24 cm H