What’s new: Glass treasures by Tapio Wirkkala
The Pallas vase, designed by Tapio Wirkkala, reflects the wild beauty of Northern Finland.
TAPIO WIRKKALA is a name familiar to every design enthusiast. Known as the pioneer of Finnish glass art, Wirkkala was constantly seeking new ways to work with his beloved material. Throughout his long and successful career, he created numerous iconic collections that have stood the test of time. Now, Iittala has opened the doors to its archives, allowing a select few of Wirkkala's masterpieces to shine once again.
The distinctive, ice-like texture of the Ultima Thule collection is created as the molten glass burns the surface of the wooden molds.
The special copper hue adds a perfect contrast to the cool elegance of the Ultima Thule collection, with its warm glow evoking the beauty of the northern lights and sunsets.
Iittala introduces the iconic Ultima Thule glasses and carafe in a new copper shade. In 1959, the Wirkkala family acquired a summer home in Inari, and the northern landscape became a rich source of inspiration for the glass master. Perhaps the most famous expression of this landscape is the Ultima Thule collection, launched in 1968, with its organic surface formed as molten glass flows into wooden molds.
The sculptural Pallas vase draws inspiration from the melting ice of the North with its dynamic form and textured surface.
The dynamic movements of melting ice continued to inspire Wirkkala in the following years. This influence is echoed in the sculptural Pallas vase, named after the Pallas fells in Western Lapland. The organic silhouette and solid form of the vase make a striking impression, even without flowers.
The distinctive rough texture gives the Arnica vase a raw yet elegant esthetic.
The Arnica vase features the same captivating surface that even the less familiar will now recognize as Wirkkala’s signature style. Also known by its product number 2754, the Arnica glass vase was originally part of Iittala’s collection from 1975 to 1984.
Ice platters are still made in the original molds handcrafted by Wirkkala himself.
The strikingly beautiful glass plate serves both as a serving dish and a decorative art piece.
The collection of ice-inspired masterpieces grew in 1976 when Wirkkala designed the unique Ice platter. This versatile glass plate serves both as a striking decorative art piece and an elegant way to present chilly delicacies, as it can be cooled in the freezer for serving.
Set the entire table with the cool beauty of Wirkkala's masterpieces!
Each piece in this special edition collection is engraved with the designer’s initials and the year of production.
Read also:
• All products by Tapio Wirkkala >
• Read also: Ultima Thule and the feel of material >
Text: Susa Pääkkönen Images: Iittala
Published on 24 Oct, 2024
