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Paavo Tynell Tables

Finnish, 1890-1973

Paavo Tynell was an industrial designer, known as the great pioneer of Finnish lighting design and fondly dubbed “the man who illuminated Finland.” Tynell was one of the founders and chief designers of Taito Oy — the first industrial producer of lamps and other 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.

Tynell rose to prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, during which 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 Aalto’s major projects including the Paimio Sanatorium and the Viipuri Library.

Tynell was especially praised for 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, Tynell’s designs were derivative of a traditional aesthetic with a modern sensibility, mixed with an extensive use of perforated and polished brass. Marked by delicacy and softness, his most famous forms in lighting echo the structures of nature; he adroitly created sculptural shapes reminiscent of the branches of trees, swirling snowflakes and seashells.

Find antique Paavo Tynell chandeliers and pendants, floor lamps and other lighting for sale on 1stDibs. 

(Biography provided by Side Gallery)

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Creator: Paavo Tynell
1930s “Apu” Side Table by Maija Heikinheimo with Integrated Taito Oy Lamp
1930s “Apu” Side Table by Maija Heikinheimo with Integrated Taito Oy Lamp

1930s “Apu” Side Table by Maija Heikinheimo with Integrated Taito Oy Lamp

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A rare and characterful Scandinavian functionalist piece combining the iconic “Apu” side table by Maija Heikinheimo with an integrated lamp by Taito Oy, Finland, dating to the 1930s....

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Paavo Tynell Side Table with decoration by Helena Tynell - Finland House 1949
Paavo Tynell Side Table with decoration by Helena Tynell - Finland House 1949

Paavo Tynell Side Table with decoration by Helena Tynell - Finland House 1949

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This "Cats" table is unique and the only item known from Finland House New York . , made by Taito Oy in Helsinki . Paavo Tynell & Helena Tynell design 3 different small tables with ...

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Mid-20th Century Finnish Scandinavian Modern Paavo Tynell Tables

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Brass

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Paavo Tynell tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Paavo Tynell tables are available for sale on 1stDibs. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider tables by Ilmari Tapiovaara, Aino Aalto, and Eero Saarinen.

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