A rare set of both sizes crystal Art-object, model 3561 – Iittala, Finland circa 1955 1954 - 1955

Tapio Wirkkala

PrintCrystalEngravingGemstone
35 ⨯ 7 ⨯ 7 cm
ConditionGood
€ 3.375

Van Kerkhoff Art

• About the artwork
  Two turned mold-blown crystal Art-object with vertical cut lines. These Art-objects are model 3561 in the oeuvre of Tapio Wirkkala. It was designed in 1954 and handmade by the craftsmen at the Iittala glassworks in Finland in 1954 or 1955.
  
  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 in two sizes and only for a very short time: from 1954-1955. This therefor being a rare complete set of both sizes. They are signed in diamondpen underneath the base: Tapio Wirkkala – Iittala. The largest one is also dated (1955).
  
  Condition
  These art-object are in good vintage condition. Some minor scratches underneath the base consistent with age and use. One minute "fleabite" on the largest vase. No cracks or chips.
  
  Literature
  Marianne Aav, Tapio Wirkkala eye, hand and thought: p. 304
  
  Dimensions
  Largest size
  Height 35 cm
  Width 7,6 cm
  Depth 7,1 cm
  Weight 1233 grams
  
  Smallest size
  Height 26 cm
  Width 7.5 cm
  Depth 6.2 cm
  Weight 731 grams
  
  
  
  
  
  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.
  
  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.
• About the artist

  Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was a multitalented design genius, widely considered a leading figure of modern Finnish industrial art. Wirkkala's wide ranging portfolio spans from glass, furniture and product design to sculpture, city planning, art, graphics and even creating banknotes for the Finnish treasury.

  Throughout his incredibly productive career, Wirkkala received numerous awards including three gold medals at the Milan Triennale, the Lunning Prize, Pro Finlandia Medal and the Prince Eugen Medal.

  In 1946, Wirkkala won his first design award in a competition sponsored by Iittala that would mark a lifelong relationship with lasting effects on his career and the company. As Iittala’s artistic director, Wirkkala’s unique artistic vision helped establish the company’s global reputation.

  Throughout his legendary career, the uniquely talented artist created more than four hundred glass objects for Iittala, many of which, like the Ultima Thule and Tapio series remain popular today.

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