Pair of Paavo Tynell Model "80138" Opal Glass Ceiling Lights for Taito, Finland 1930s














Pair of Paavo Tynell Model "80138" Opal Glass Ceiling Lights for Taito, Finland 1930s
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell - the “man who illuminated Finland” - was a pioneer of modern lighting. Born in 1890, the invention of lightbulbs preceded him by only a few years, and with his notable vision for design Tynell was one of the first to innovate electric lighting internationally. A master craftsman himself, his work drew inspiration from a traditional aesthetic with a modern design sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass.
Finland gaining their independence in 1917 brought on a renewed sense of identity, which developed a prime dialogue with nature - evident in the emerging trends of the early 20th century. Finnish modern design places at its core the inventive use of lighting and the incorporation of natural elements. There is an emphasis on clean lines, geometric shapes, and a focus on practicality. With this pair of ceiling lights lies a focus on both simplicity and functionality; the rounded opal glass shades are reminiscent of water droplets, accentuating their organic design. They are a subtle addition to a space that glows with a warm gentle light, adding to the overall cozy atmosphere of any interior. The shades are made out of opal glass, a popular material for lighting fixtures in the mid-century era due in part to its ability to soften light. It is also prized for its smooth, opaque finish, giving these lamps an overall sophisticated and refined look.
In 1918, Tynell co-founded the first lighting manufacturing company in Finland: Taito Oy. The company was founded by a small group of highly-skilled craftsmen that helped build its international success. The founders include Paavo Tynell’s former tutor and fellow designer Eric Ehrström, goldsmith Frans Nykänen, sculptor Emil Wickström, and investor Gösta Serlachius. Although Paavo Tynell was one of the principal designers, other famous Finnish designers collaborated with Taito Oy, such as Alvar Aalto, Henry Ericsson, and Ville Vallgren. Taito Oy grew to become a trendsetter for the Finnish lighting industry, and eventually to have a worldwide influence on international design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired.
Dimensions:
12.01 in Ø x 4.92 in H
30.5 cm Ø x 12.5 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Paavo Tynell was one of Finland’s most important lighting designers and came to be known as the “man who illuminated Finland”, thanks to his notable models. As a master craftsman, his designs combined a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility and an extensive use of glass and brass. His work with Idman followed the company’s acquisition of the majority of shares in Taito Oy in 1953, after which Tynell continued designing on a freelance basis.
This set of four Model “80113” ceiling lamps embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish lighting design of the mid-century period. Tynell’s designs merge together simple shapes and carefully considered materials. Each lamp has an eye-catching, shallow rounded milk glass shade with a broad upper section and a softly curved lower profile. The opaque ivory-white glass conceals the light source while allowing the illumination to spread evenly across the entire shade. The edges are just as soft as the light the lamps emit, giving the glass an organic shape despite the simplicity of the design. Thanks to the concealed ceiling holders, the lamps are flush mounted without any prominent exposed parts other than the glass shades. This keeps the construction visually clean and leaves the attention on the material and the quality of the illumination. When lit, the milk glass produces a warm, atmospheric glow and emphasises the smooth curvature of the shades. Used as a set, the repetition of the same compact form creates an effective rhythm across a ceiling while distributing light over a larger area.
The best qualities of Finnish mid-century light fixtures are their atmospheric glow and disciplined, functional design, and these lamps embody those qualities particularly well. The construction makes them suitable for hallways, bedrooms or rooms with lower ceilings, while the simple glass forms integrate naturally into the surrounding architecture. Combining Tynell’s sensitivity to light with Idman’s Finnish manufacture, the model “80113” lamps offer an elegant example of his more restrained ceiling designs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamps have 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:
9.84 in ø x 4.72 in H
25 cm ø x 12 cm H