Paavo Tynell Model "9224" Table Lamp for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s

Paavo Tynell Model "9224" Table Lamp for Idman Oy, Finland 1950s

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‎Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur

Paavo Tynell is one of Finland’s best known and most collected mid-century designers. Tynell was a pioneer of European lighting design and a founder of the first lighting manufacturing company in Finland, Taito Oy. The present model “9224” table lamp is a well known design famous for its characteristic base design.

This model is better known as the "horseshoe" due to the shape of the foot and other features making it resemble Thoroughbreds. In a 1950s edition of the Finland House Lighting catalogue this lamp was nicknamed Thoroughbred, but interestingly enough, not because of the horseshoe-foot. The Thoroughbred is a hot-blooded racing horse breed known for its agility and physical features including a well-chiselled head, a long, slim neck and a lean body. Features that describe this lamp model as well. This version (there exists one with small holes on the reflector) has a funnel shaped brass reflector with a ring of perforated lines highlighting its widening shape. The reflector is lacquered white inside and can be adjusted in its position, functional elements that show Tynell’s consideration for the user and the lamp’s utilitarian role as well. The most distinct element however, remains the brass horseshoe base that balances the design both visually and literally as well. It is a sleek, modern element that makes this model immediately recognizable. It is connected to the shade by a straight neck wrapped entirely in leather. While Tynell’s company collaborated with up-and-coming talent as well as more established names such as Alvar Aalto, Tynell’s own designs are the most collected for their elegant brass forms, exquisite quality, and interesting play of materials.

A master craftsman himself, Tynell’s design is derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of perforated and polished brass as material. This table lamp showcases all his sensibilities that gained him worldwide fame and renown.

Condition:

In good vintage condition consistent with age and use. The brass reflector and foot have weather marks and patina. The lampshade has a visible dent on one side.

Dimensions:

9.64 in W x 8.46 in D x 21.85 in H (shade is adjustable)

24.5 cm W x 21.5 cm D x 55.5 cm H (shade is adjustable)

Literature:

M. Aav, Paavo Tynell and Taito, exhibition catalogue, Ed. Designmuseo, Helsinki, 2005, model illustrated p. 21

Idman lighting catalogue, Helsinki, 1954, n°136. p.52

Idman lighting catalogue, Helsinki, n°142. p.80

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. ~H.

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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur

Finnish mid-century design is characterised by simple, elegant forms, which Paavo Tynell was a master of. Like Finnish culture, he embraced timeless beauty, sustainability, and a deep connection to the natural world. His favourite material to work with was brass, and he formed it into distinctive and unique shapes.

Paavo Tynell is one of Finland's best-known and most collected mid-century designers; he pioneered European lighting design and co-founded the first lighting manufacturing company in Finland, Taito Oy. Functionality, a pared-down, simple style, and a thoughtful colour palette are key principles for the Finnish icon, whose "9032" chandelier model features modern elements and focuses on the characteristics of the brass itself paired with five shades. The shades are made of delicate rattan slats which allow the light to shine through, while giving the fixture a subtle sense of organic texture and symmetry. The material introduces depth and visual warmth, softly diffusing the glow while contrasting with the texture of the smooth brass. Small decorative details adorn the central 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 of this piece are carefully considered, with the compact cluster of shades balanced by the slender stem above. The prowess of the producer becomes evident as this lamp represents a statement piece.

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 Taito are appreciated for this balance, offering both sculptural presence and practical illumination.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chandelier has recently been rewired and reconditioned. The rattan shades are custom made by our in-house atelier. The brass is patinated. Minor dents and scratches in the metal. Due to the age and nature of the brass and rattan, the chandelier may have marks, and discolouration. The lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.

Dimensions:

21.85 in W x 21.26 in D x 17.52 in H

55.5 cm W x 54 cm D x 44.5 cm H

Pair of Model "7239" Wall Lights by Paavo Tynell for Taito, Finland 1930s

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

Paavo Tynell was one of the central figures in the development of modern Finnish lighting. Trained as a metalworker, he co-founded the company Taito Oy in 1918, where he served as managing director and chief designer for several decades. By the 1930s, Tynell was designing lighting for major architectural projects and working alongside figures such as Alvar Aalto, developing an approach in which precise metalwork, simple forms and carefully diffused light came together.

Model “7239” is composed around cylindrical opal glass shades suspended from compact nickel-plated metal structures. Each fixture begins with a circular wall plate, from which a short arm projects horizontally before bending downward at a clean right angle toward the shade. This simple curve gives the lamps a clear architectural profile, while the reflective metal introduces a sharp contrast against the softly luminous glass. The shades have an elongated cylindrical form with gently rounded corners, through which light passes evenly thanks to the opal glass. When lit, the shades turn into warm glowing volumes while keeping the bulb concealed. A shallow metal cap closes the upper part of each shade and visually connects it to the arm above, giving the fixture a particularly resolved transition between glass and metal. The proportions are carefully controlled: the round backplate echoes the width of the shade without competing with it, while the short projecting arm holds the glass just far enough from the wall for its full shape to remain visible.

Seen as a pair, the repeated circles, curved arms and vertical glass forms create a strong rhythm. These model “7239” lamps are particularly effective beside a bed, a mirror or artwork, or arranged along a hallway, as they are perfect for adding warmth without dominating the space.

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 have minor marks, scratches, chips 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:

5.51 in W x 9.64 in D x 11.81 in H

14 cm W x 24.5 cm D x 30 cm H

Model "2004" Nickel Plated Pendant Light by Paavo Tynell for Taito, Finland 1930s

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

This “2004” pendant lamp, designed by Paavo Tynell for Taito in the 1930s, is a quintessential example of early Finnish modern lighting. Known as “the man who illuminated Finland,” Tynell was a pioneer in bringing elegance, lightness, and innovation to everyday interiors. His designs for Taito helped establish Finnish lighting as a global benchmark, blending functionality with a poetic sensibility that made lamps more than utilitarian objects, but integral elements of atmosphere and style.

This model features a softly stepped opaline glass shade that diffuses light evenly, producing a warm and atmospheric glow. The shade’s gentle form showcases Tynell’s gift for balancing simplicity with refinement, ensuring that the piece remains modest in profile while quietly sophisticated in detail. Suspended from a slender nickel-plated rod attached to a polished canopy, the lamp demonstrates Tynell’s sensitivity to proportion and harmony, qualities that made his designs adaptable to a wide range of interiors. The use of opaline glass was not only functional, providing glare-free illumination ideal for dining or working spaces, but also aesthetic, introducing a soft tone that completes the sheen of the metal fittings. When lit, the lamp enhances its surroundings in a practical, yet atmospheric way through masterful construction, elegant materials, and timeless allure.

Model “2004” was manufactured at Taito. In 1918 Tynell founded Oy Taito AB, which eventually became the Finnish lighting industry trendsetter during the interwar period. This rare 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. The pendant lamp has recently been reconditioned and rewired. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. This lamp is compatible with an E26 / E27 (standard) fitting.

Dimensions:

12.79 in ø x 33.46 in H

32.5 cm ø x 85 cm H

Model "1004" Brass Pendant Lamp with Glass Shade by Paavo Tynell for Taito, Finland 1930s

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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 hanging lamp, model “1004”, is an exemplary representation of Tynell's artistic vision and technical mastery.

This uniquely decorated hanging lamp was designed in an era in which Finland saw the birth of many of its most iconic lighting models. It was a period of consistency, excellence, and sophistication design wise. Despite its age, this ceiling light has a hint of Art Deco in its design, with sinuous lines and pronounced decorative elements. One of the defining features of 20th century lighting is its marriage of functionality and aesthetics; the era's designers believed that a well-made lighting fixture could serve a practical purpose while also acting as a piece of art, and this lamp is a testament to this sentiment. Moreover, brass was very much one of the most popular materials of the 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. Moreover, on the list of decorative elements are the ring on the finial, the rod adorned with a floral element, the curves of the arms, and finally, the way the rod connects to the canopy. These features make this hanging lamp 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 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. The lamp has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the brass, it may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Additional imperfections on the glass may be present due to manufacturing inconsistencies and age. The brass is patinated. This lamp is compatible with an E27 standard fitting.

Dimensions:

12.2 in W × 8.1 in D × 27.2 in H

31 cm W x 20.5 cm D x 69 cm H

Model "80112" Opal Glass Flush Mount by Paavo Tynell for Idman, Finland 1930s

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

This lamp embodies the sleek and straightforward aesthetic that characterised Finnish design in the 1930s. Even in the absence of ornamentation, there was always an emphasis on interesting, high-quality materials. Milk glass, appropriately named for its opaque or translucent pure ivory white tone, was first created in Venice in the 16th century, and was 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 is a mid-century example of the beauty of this material, rooted in its history. It has an eye-catching blunted cone shape with 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 shade. Tynell was a master of working with milk glass, and his lamps made of this material are some of his most sought-after designs.

Finnish designers like Tynell pushed the boundaries of what was possible with new materials and manufacturing techniques in the 20th century. 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 perfectly embody these qualities, with clean lines, and a peculiar, but functional design.‎

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 material, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration.

Dimensions:

9.84 in ø x 11.42 in H

25 cm ø x 29 cm H