Pair of Paavo Tynell Model “2008” Wall Lights for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s










Pair of Paavo Tynell Model “2008” Wall Lights for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
“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, and internationally.
The best qualities of Tynell's light fixtures are their atmospheric light and disciplined, functionalist design, exemplified by these two model “2008” ceiling lamps. The design of this model 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. These 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 nickel plated brass a vivid colour as well. Tynell’s designs are marked by a delicacy and softness that reveals his background in fine jewellery, and his most famous forms in lighting echo the structures of nature. Model “2008” is a modernist design to its core with a look that is timeless and can stand out and complement any space.
Idman Oy was established as early as 1897 by Karl Hjalmar Idman. In 1953, Idman Oy, acquired the majority of shares in Taito Oy, the company of Paavo Tynell. Paavo Tynell continued to work for the company on a freelance basis, through his own design firm. In his day, Tynell’s atmospheric light fixtures attracted attention as far away as the United States.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The metal base has some marks and staining. The mounting bases of the lamps differ slightly.
Dimensions:
7.08 in ⌀ x 7.87 in H
18 cm ⌀ x 20 cm H
Literature:
Idman Lighting Catalogue 140 – 1950s – Around 1956. p. 26.
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.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Mid-century Danish design is celebrated for its clarity of form, refined material use, and quiet sophistication. Throughout the mid-20th century, Danish designers like Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen focused on creating objects that were as functional as they were elegant, emphasising proportion, restraint, and craftsmanship. Lighting in particular became a defining element of this era, with a focus on design that brought warmth and atmosphere into everyday interiors.
This floor lamp is attributed to Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen. He was a Danish designer best known for his wide collection of light fixtures. As a licensed ornamental metalworker, Holm-Sørensen started his design career in the 1950s, and many of his designs feature metal surface with different ornaments and perforations. The lamp featured three slender brass stems that rise from a compact conical base before coming to the mid-point to transition into two stems branching outward. The wooden element introduces a warm touch, complementing the metals. Each arm terminates in an individually adjustable brass neck, allowing the fabric shades to be directed independently for reading, accent, or ambient lighting. The contrast between the warm brass, dark lacquered base, and textured fabric shades gives the lamp visual richness while remaining understated.
Holm-Sørensen’s work consistently balanced precision and character, and this piece reflects that philosophy. It honours the Scandinavian tradition that valued craftsmanship as much as innovation. The timeless simplicity of this design allows it to integrate into both contemporary and vintage interiors, standing as a testament to the enduring refinement of Danish mid-century lighting design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The floor lamp has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shades were custom made by our in-house atelier. The item has some marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
29.52 in W x 15.94 in D x 56.49 in H
75 cm W x 40.5 cm D x 143.5 cm H