Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Crystal Glass Art Bowl Handblown Iittala 1960

View Similar Items

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Two Line Cut Crystal Art Objects Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Two Line Cut Crystal Art Bowls Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Two Crystal Line Cut Art-Objects Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Two Line Cut Crystal Art vases Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Three Line Cut Crystal Art vases Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Two Blue Clear Glass Art Objects Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Combed Crystal Art object Leaf set Handblown

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Crystal line cut sculptures Handblown ca 1955

Scsndinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Crystal Line Cut Art Vase Handblown 1957

Ice Glass Bowl "Lunaria" by Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala 1972

Large Ice Glass Bowl "Lunaria" by Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala, 1972

Vintage Art Glass Vase by Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala, 1954

Want more images or videos?

Request additional images or videos from the seller

1 of 15

Scandinavian Modern Tapio Wirkkala Crystal Glass Art Bowl Handblown Iittala 1960

About the Item

Tapio Wirkkala – A crystal Art-object “Jäänsäro” or “Iceblock”, model 3847 – Iittala, Finland circa 1960 A mesmerizing blend of stillness and craftsmanship, the "Jäänsäro" or "Iceblock" is a mold-blown, crystal cut art object that stands as a testament to the genius of Finnish designer Tapio Wirkkala. Designed in 1951 and executed by the esteemed Iittala glassworks circa 1960, this exquisite piece showcases the artistry and innovation that propelled Wirkkala to international acclaim. The significance of the "Iceblock" reaches far beyond its striking beauty. Among a distinguished array of glass objects, this masterpiece earned Wirkkala the coveted Grand Prix, the highest accolade bestowed at the IX Milan Triennale in 1951. This seminal exhibition marked a breakthrough moment for Wirkkala on the international stage, solidifying his position as a visionary in the world of design. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the "Iceblock" boasts a hammered rim that adds a touch of uniqueness to its crystal-cut composition. However, due to the delicate nature of the production process, the rims of this model are often susceptible to damage. Thus, finding an example of the "Iceblock" without chips or cracks is a rarity in itself. This particular piece, offered to discerning collectors, is a true gem. It is a pristine example, free from the imperfections that often plague its counterparts. Signed underneath the base in diamond pen, the markings serve as a testament to its authenticity: Tapio Wirkkala Iittala 3847. About the artist Tapio Wirkkala (1915 Hanko, Finland - 1985 Helsinki, Finland) was a Finnish designer whose work spanned a vast range of materials and mediums. With a career that encompassed everything from intricate glass art to industrial design, he was a true master of his craft. His breakthrough moment came in 1946, when he and fellow designer Kaj Franck won first prize in a glass design competition held by the Iittala glassworks. From there, Wirkkala's star rose quickly, and he became a giant of the Finnish design world. Wirkkala's artistic output was nothing short of extraordinary. His creations included stunning pieces of glass art, as well as designs for everything from beer bottles to banknotes. He also dabbled in jewellery, sculpture, and furniture design, proving that no area of design was beyond his reach. Throughout his career, Wirkkala received numerous awards and honorary titles, and even earned a doctorate. Perhaps most notably, he won three Grand Prix medals at the Milan Triennale in 1954, and followed that up with an additional Grand Prix medal and gold medal at the same event in 1960. With his boundless creativity and unparalleled skill, Tapio Wirkkala remains an icon of Finnish design to this day. Condition This Art object is in very good condition, Some minor scratches underneath the base consistent with age and use. No cracks or chips which for this model makes this a very rare example. Literature Marianne Aav, TAPIO WIRKKALA eye, hand and thought: p. 300, p. 81 (illustrated) Dimensions Height 8 cm Width 23 cm Depth 16 cm Weight 1415 grams Complimentary Worldwide Shipping.

Creator:
Tapio Wirkkala (Artist),Iittala (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 3.15 in (8 cm)Width: 9.06 in (23 cm)Depth: 6.3 in (16 cm)
Style:
Scandinavian Modern (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Art Glass,Blown Glass,Crystal,Other
Place of Origin:
Finland
Period:
1960-1969
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1960
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. This Art object is in very good condition, Some minor scratches underneath the base consistent with age and use. No cracks or chips which for this model makes this a very rare example.
Seller Location:
EL Waalre, NL
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU5141235137472

Shop All Tapio Wirkkala

Tapio Wirkkala

Along with architect Alvar Aalto, the designer Tapio Wirkkala was Finland’s leading contributor to the Scandinavian interpretation of modernism in the mid-20th century. Prolific and innovative, Wirkkala excelled in a wide range of fields, including glass, furniture, porcelain, jewelry and tableware. The hallmark of his talent was an ability to impart a craft aesthetic based on natural forms — leaves, ice, bubbles, birds — to industrially produced designs.

A native of Helsinki, Wirkkala studied at the national School of Applied Arts and took up a career in graphic design. After serving in the Finnish army during World War II, he joined the glassmaking firm Iittala, an association that would continue to the end of his life. Wirkkala learned every aspect of glassmaking in keeping with his belief that an artist-designer should be involved in all stages of production. His best-known works for Iittala are vases and drinking vessels that resemble either carved ice or icicles. In 1956, Wirkkala began a long relationship with the porcelain maker Rosenthal, for whom he designed elegant table pieces, such as the Finlandia coffee service and the biomorphic Pollo vases.

House Beautiful magazine declared Wirkkala’s Leaf platter the “most beautiful object” of 1951. (The acclaim led to his brief employment stint with industrial designer Raymond Loewy in New York.) That platter was one of the first designs Wirkkala made using laminated sheets of plywood sanded to a smooth surface that resembles an abstract leaf. It would go on to become a motif in many Wirkkala furniture pieces — most notably in inlaid coffee tables for Asko — and in a sense these are the works most emblematic of his personal aesthetic.

Wirkkala was a traditionalist in many ways, but he had a modernist’s practical approach, incorporating his leaf-like spirals into simple, functional objects. That is the core attraction of Wirkkala’s designs: They stand out with a striking, sculptural energy yet blend in as part of a warm and comfortable decor.

Find vintage Tapio Wirkkala furniture on 1stDibs.