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)
Paavo Tynell, Wall Lights, Brass, Finland, 1950s
By Paavo Tynell
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of adjustable brass wall lights, model A4, designed by Paavo Tynell and produced by Idman, Finland, c. 1950s. Very light oxidation and scratching present. Overall Dimensions...
Brass
Swedish Designer, Wall Lights, Brass, Metal, Sweden, 1950s
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of brass and white-lacquered metal wall lights designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1950s. Overall Dimensions (Inches): 10.75"H x 4.375"W x 13.25"D Back Plate Dimensions (Inc...
Metal, Brass
Swedish Designer, Wall Lights, Brass, Glass, Sweden, 1940s
Located in High Point, NC
A brass and etched glass wall lights designed and produced in Sweden, 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 13.625” H x 8” W x 10.375“D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches): 4” H x 2.25...
Brass
Swedish Designer, Wall Lights, Brass, Glass, Sweden, 1940s
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of brass and etched glass wall lights designed and produced in Sweden, 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 13.625” H x 8 ” W x 9.875“D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches): 4” H...
Brass
Mauri Almari, Wall Lights, Brass, Glass, Finland, 1950s
By Mauri Almari
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of brass and beige opaline glass wall lights designed by Mauri Almari and produced by Idman, Finland, c. 1950s. The brass socket, arm, and backplate present with moderate oxi...
Brass
Swedish Designer, Wall Lights, Brass, Glass, Sweden, 1940s
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of brass and etched glass wall lights designed and produced in Sweden, 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 13.625” H x 8 ” W x 9.875“D Back Plate Dimensions (Inches): 4” H...
Brass
Paavo Tynell Pair of Wall Lights Sconces Model 2351, Idman Oy, Finland 1950's
By Paavo Tynell
Located in New York, NY
Wall lights model 2351 by Paavo Tynell for Idman Oy from the 1950's. Painted metal with brass details. Good vintage condition, nice patina and wear consistent with age and use. The w...
Bronze, Enamel
Pair of Model 9459 Wall Lights, Paavo Tynell, Taito Oy, 1940/1950s
By Taito Oy, Paavo Tynell
Located in Helsinki, Uusimaa
Pair of model 9459 wall lights, design Paavo Tynell, manufactured by Taito Oy, 1940/1950s. Brass. Marked. Adjustable shades. Good vintage condition, patina consistent with age and us...
Brass
Wall Lamps in Brass and White Lacquered Metal by Paavo Tynell, 1950's
By Paavo Tynell
Located in Limhamn, Skåne län
Wall Lamps in Brass and White Lacquered Metal by Paavo Tynell, 1950's Additional Information: Material: Brass and white lacquered metal Style: Mid century, Scandinavian Very rare wa...
Metal, Brass
A pair of wall lights by Paavo Tynell for Taito Oy.
By Taito Oy, Paavo Tynell
Located in Long Island City, NY
A pair of indoor/outdoor wall lights designed by Paavo Tynell for Taito Oy, Model 2521-53. Finland Circa 1950th. Painted metal shade with opaline glass globe shade. Marked by manufa...
Metal
Pair of Model 9447 Wall Light by Paavo Tynell for Oy Taito Ab, 1950s
By Taito Oy, Paavo Tynell
Located in Helsinki, Uusimaa
Pair of Model 9447 wall light, designed by Paavo Tynell, manufactured by Oy Taito Ab, 1950s. Brass frame, opaline glass shade. Marked. Good vintage condition, minor patina consistent...
Brass
Pair of Paavo Tynell Table-/ Wall Lights Model 61032, Idman, 1950s
By Paavo Tynell, Idman Oy
Located in Helsinki, Uusimaa
Pair of model 61032 table-/ wall lights, designed by Paavo Tynell, manufactured by Idman, 1950s. Brass frame with opaline glass shades. Adjustable shade. Marked. Good vintage conditi...
Brass
