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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Itsu, short for Itä-Suomen Sähkö (eng. Eastern Finland Electricity), was a small, lesser-known manufacturer that produced characteristic models in small quantities. Itsu stands as a beacon of innovation in mid-century modern design. This lamp represents an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models.

The form of this pair is built around an opal glass diffuser that has a slightly conical and rounded profile that gives it subtle depth without becoming visually heavy. With its sleek and simple aesthetic, and in the absence of heavy ornamentation, the emphasis falls on materials. The use of opal glass is central to the design. The diffuser softens the glow and disperses it, creating a more ambient and balanced illumination. The relatively small diameter and shallow projection also means they can be used in tighter spaces without disrupting the proportions of the room. 

The 20th century was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as makers 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 this pair demonstrates. As designers sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical, they left an unforgettable mark in the history of light and ambiance.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. These lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.

Dimensions:

15.75 in ø x 6.69 in H

40 cm ø x 17 cm H

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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur

Gunnel Nyman (19 September 1909 – 7 October 1948) was a Finnish glass and metal artist, and one of the founders of modern Finnish glass design. She was also an advocate of early mass-produced glassware. Nyman's glassware is exhibited internationally in museums.

This “80115” ceiling lamp embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised Finnish design in the 1950s. 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 for home accents to decorate households. This lamp has an eye-catching blunted cone shape, with the edges just as soft as the light it diffuses. Thanks to the concealed ceiling holder, the lamp is flush mounted without any exposed parts other than the glass shade. Nyman considered material an essential factor in design, to the point that - in her opinion - each object had only one material that it could be made from. Form, proportion and decoration were only there to enhance the properties inherent in the material. The Finnish design blueprint that was set during the first few decades of the 1900s is based on characteristics that can be traced in this lamp model: functionality, an understated, unornamented design created from high quality materials - and most importantly, by a skilled craftsperson.

Although Gunnel Nyman’s career was cut short by an untimely death, she had time enough to give a new direction to Finnish glass design. Her work foreshadowed the work of the 1950s and 1960s Finnish glass designers. At the Milan Triennial in 1951, Nyman was awarded gold medal for glass posthumously.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ceiling lamp has recently been reconditioned. There are minor dents and scratches in the metal. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have marks, 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 8.66 in H

25 cm ø x 22 cm H

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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 models were of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as materials.

In the 20th century, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including these model “2028” milk glass ceiling lamps. This pair embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised early modern Finnish design. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation or elaborate shapes and forms, 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, it was known as Lattimo. At that time, the material was widely used for decorative purposes and continued to be popular during the 20th century when it was used as home accents to decorate households. Milk glass was an extremely popular material for lighting fixtures in the 1950s, due in part to its ability to soften and diffuse light, as this pair demonstrates. To complement the glass, nickel-plated brass mounts attach the shades to the ceiling, offering the lamps a cool tone even when unlit. This model has a gentle, round shape that is just as soft as the light it diffuses. Tynell was a master of working with this material combination, and his milk glass ceiling lamps are some of his most sought-after designs to this day.

The 20th century 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 many sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical, they left an unforgettable mark in the history of light and ambiance.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additionally, minor imperfections may be present on the glass due to manufacturing inconsistencies. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

11.81 in Ø x 8.66 in H

30 cm Ø x 22 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Finnish mid-century design is characterised by simple, elegant forms that Paavo Tynell was a master of. Like Finnish culture, he embraced timeless beauty, sustainability and a deep connection to the natural world. One of his favourite materials to work with was glass, as this set of three ceiling lamps showcases.

This pair embodies the sleek and simple aesthetic that characterised modern Finnish design. Still, even in the absence of ornamentation or elaborate shapes and forms, there was always an emphasis on interesting materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or transparent 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 to decorate households as home accents. These lamps have an eye-catching shape thanks to the brass ring detail. Still, the edges are just as soft as the light these lamps emit. These pieces are 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 mid-century period was a time of great innovation in Finnish design, as artists 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, with designers who sought to create objects that were both beautiful and practical. Tynell's model "A2-7" lamps embody these qualities perfectly, with clean lines, and a unique, but functional design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ceiling lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. There are minor dents and scratches in the copper. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamps may have marks, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. These lamps are compatible with E27 standard fittings. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

9.64 in ø x 5.12 in H

24.5 cm ø x 13 cm H

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 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 three 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, they 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 started 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, Paavo 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 has some marks and staining. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have additional marks, scratches, and discolouration. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

8.27 in ∅ x 9.06 in D

21 cm ∅ x 23 cm D

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. ~H.

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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, Tynell’s designs were born from a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of glass and brass as material.  As co-founder and chief designer of Taito Oy, he developed fixtures that combined technical precision with an understated elegance, favouring balanced proportions and softly diffused illumination.

Before his retirement in 1953, he designed a number of iconic lamps that are still sought after today, including this milk glass ceiling lamp with the model number “2034”. The piece demonstrates this restrained approach with exceptional clarity. The fixture appears effortless: a gently rounded opaline glass shade is suspended beneath a discreet metal mount, creating a composition defined by pure geometry and grace. The softly tapering profile of the glass lends the lamp a sculptural presence, while its glossy surface reflects ambient light even when unlit. When illuminated, the opaline diffuser transforms into a glowing bulb, dispersing light evenly and eliminating harsh shadows. The exposed metal fitting provides a subtle visual anchor above the glass, introducing just enough contrast without disturbing the calm harmony of the design.

Although modest, model “2034” possesses an enduring architectural presence. Every element has been reduced to its essential form, allowing proportion, material, and light itself to become the defining decorative features.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Minor imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

9.84 in ø x 12 in H

25 cm ø x 30.5 cm H

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

Lighting is a huge part of Danish and Scandinavian design, ranging from the warm, low light of a candle to the bright overhead glow of a ceiling lamp. This pair of wall lamps is a unique piece of functionalist design with unmistakable touches of Modernism.

Manufacturers such as Lyfa reflect the iconic movement of Danish lighting design. Founded in 1924, Lyfa produced lighting that combined craftsmanship with a growing interest in functional clarity. This pair of wall lamps is defined by its compact yet expressive composition, where each element contributes to a clear visual message. The softly rounded opaline glass shades forms the focal point, its shape diffusing light evenly in all directions. Supporting the glass is a curved brass arm that extends outward from the wall mount in a smooth, controlled arc which introduces a sense of movement. The brass structures carry a subtle patina, emphasising the material’s age and adding depth to the surface. As these sconces showcase, the glass and shape are always in focus, combined with elegance, simplicity, and confidence. The artistic design is very honest in a purely Scandinavian manner, exposing the joinery and the materials’ natural qualities as well.

Sconces are a timeless type of lighting fixture that can easily elevate their surroundings. These pieces never go out of style, and have been in use for centuries. This is especially true for mid-century brass models like these. While already stunning individually, these light models are even more effective when placed in close proximity to each other.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.

Dimensions:

3.15 in W x 5.51 in D x 8.46 in H

8 cm W x 14 cm D x 21.5 cm H

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Finnish designer, Lisa Johansson-Pape, was among the most significant lighting designers in the second half of the 1900s. Working for the Stockmann owned manufacturer, Orno, she developed a design language rooted in functionality, simplicity, and the careful shaping of light. Johansson-Pape believed that a lamp should create a pleasant atmosphere, allowing form and decoration to support rather than overshadow its purpose. 

This pair of model “1116” ceiling lights combines opal glass and brass to create an iconic Finnish modern look. The fixtures are composed around broad, gently tapering shades whose softly curved profiles create an elegant silhouette against the ceiling. The opal glass diffuses light evenly across the entire surface, concealing the light source while producing a warm and comfortable glow. A discreet brass cap completes the shades, introducing a subtle decorative accent and a welcome contrast to the smooth, luminous glass. The transition between materials allows the brass to complement rather than dominate the composition. When illuminated, the shades appear almost weightless, floating beneath the ceiling while softly radiating light throughout the room. Their restrained geometry and balanced proportions embody the calm sophistication that characterises the best examples of Finnish mid-century design.

While Lisa Johansson-Pape was also active as a furniture designer, her lighting models brought her world-wide fame. Her work was presented in New York’s World Fair of 1939 and the Milan Triennial IX, where she won an award in 1951, and model  “1116” is a clear example of her artistry.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the lamps may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. These ceiling lights are compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

15.75 in ø x 7.09 in H

40 cm ø x 18 cm H