| Marked | unmarked, well documented |
|---|---|
| Execution | Iittala glassworks, Finland, circa 1955 |
| Condition | This Art object is in fair condition, Some minor scratches underneath the base consistent with age and use. Some minor inclusions. No cracks or chips. |
| Literature | Marianne Aav, Tapio Wirkkala eye, hand and thought: p. 298 |
| Dimensions | Height 5 cm |
Tapio Wirkkala – A crystal Art-object Model 3139 – Iittala, Finland circa 1955
SOLD
Uitverkocht
A turned mold-blown crystal Art-object with vertical cut lines. This Art-object is model 3139 in the oeuvre of Tapio Wirkkala. It was designed in 1950 and handmade by the craftsmen at the Iittala glassworks in Finland in the 1950’s.
The inspiration for this model – like most of Wirkkala’s designs – came from Nature. Like the “Cantharel” and “Boletus” – designed by Wirkkala in the same period – this model resembles a wild mushroom.
These art-objects were made from 1950-1951 and 1954-1959 in one size only. This is a unsigned example in good condition.
About Tapio Wirkkala
Tapio Wirkkala (1915 Hanko, Finland – 1985 Helsinki, Finland) A giant of Finnish design, Wirkkala was an artist of great diversity for whom no material was alien and who left no area of design unexplored. Neosin Neosin
A glass design competition held by the Iittala glassworks in 1946 was the event that set his career in motion; the first prize went jointly to Wirkkala and Kaj Franck.
With an oeuvre that ranges from exceptionally beautiful pieces of glass art to industrial design in the form of beer bottles and banknotes, Wirkkala also designed jewellery, sculptures, and furniture.
The recipient of many awards, honorary titles, and a doctorate, Wirkkala won three Grand Prix medals at the Milan Triennale in 1954 and an additional Grand Prix medal and gold medal at the Milan Triennale in 1960.
