Helena Tynell – A multicoloured glass sculpture “Forest” – Riihimäen Lasi Oy, Finland ca 1970

A multicoloured glass sculpture “Forest”. Designed by Helena Tynell in 1966 and executed at Riihimäen Lasi Oy, Finland circa 1970.

The Forest sculpture was presented in 1966 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Riihimaen Lasi. It is a three-dimensional, sculptural work produced by Riihimäen Lasi Oy between 1966 and 1976. The sculptures were mold-blown with cased coloured glass powder, embodying Tynell’s signature organic forms inspired by nature.

This particular example is made using brown, blue en green glass powdeer in a transparent glass casing. It is in good condition and fully signed underneath the base.

About Helena Tynell

Helena Tynell (1918–2016) was a Finnish glass designer known for her innovative and organic approach to glass art. She played a key role in shaping mid-century Scandinavian design, creating pieces that combined functionality with artistic expression.

Born in 1918 in Finland, Helena Tynell (née Turpeinen) studied at the Central School of Industrial Design in Helsinki. She trained under leading Finnish designers and developed a deep appreciation for glass as a material. Early in her career, she worked for Riihimäki Glassworks, where she became one of their most influential designers. Her designs from this period, particularly from the 1950s and 1960s, are now considered classic examples of Finnish glass art.

Tynell’s work was characterized by soft, flowing shapes and a focus on texture. She often drew inspiration from nature, creating pieces that mimicked organic forms. Her designs also reflected the optimism of the post-war era, with vibrant colors and playful yet sophisticated structures.

One of her most famous creations is the “Aurinkopullo” (Sun Bottle), a bright and cheerful glass bottle that became a sought-after collector’s item. She also designed numerous lamps, vases, and decorative glass objects, many of which are still highly valued today.

Beyond Finland, Tynell’s influence extended internationally. Her work was exhibited in prestigious design shows, and she collaborated with manufacturers in Germany and other European countries. Despite her success, she remained dedicated to craftsmanship, always exploring new ways to manipulate glass.

Tynell continued to design well into her later years, leaving behind a legacy of timeless, elegant pieces. She passed away in 2016, but her work remains a significant part of Finnish and Scandinavian design history. Today, her designs are still celebrated for their warmth, artistry, and enduring appeal.