Timo Sarpaneva - Two sizes crystal Art-Object "Orkidea" (Orchid), Model 3568 - Iittala, Finland 1955 & ca. 1965

Artist

Timo Sarpaneva (Helsinki, Finland 1926 – Helsinki, Finland 2006) was an influential Finnish designer, sculptor, and educator best known in the art world for innovative work in glass. While glass remained his most commonly addressed medium, Timo Sarpaneva worked with metal, wood, textiles, and porcelain (china).

His work was among the key components that helped to launch Finland's reputation as a trailblazer of design.

Recipient of many rewards, among others: The Luning prize (1956), Grand Prix Triennale di Milan (1954, 1957) and Gold medal, Concorso Internazionale della Ceramica d'Arte Contemporanea, Faenza (1976).

Description

Two sizes, clear lead-crystal glass, cut and surface polished Art-objects / sculptures "Orkidea" (Orchid), model 3568 with steam blown interior. Designed by famous Finnish artist Timo Sarpaneva in 1953 and executed by Iittala glassworks.

The Orkidea was never conceived as a vase but as a glass sculpture, for wich Sarpaneva was awarded a "Grand Prix" at the Milan Triennale in 1954.

It was also declared "The most beautiful object of the year" by House Beautiful magazin in that same year. The "Orkidea" remains one of the most iconic designs made by the Iittala glassworks.

These art-objects have been in serial production between 1954 and 1972 and in numbered editions from the 1980's onwards.

This is an large size early example as mentioned before. It is fully marked underneath the base in diamondpen: Timo Sarpaneva - Iittala - 55 (1955) and a smaller sized later example (ca. 1965) marked underneath the base Timo Sarpaneva - Iittala - 3568 (modelnumber).

Price including VAT: Sold