Tapio Wirkkala - Sterling Silver Art-object "Liekki", Model TW 228 - Kultakeskus, Finland 1966 - Handmade to Order

Artist

Tapio Wirkkala (1915 Hanko, Finland - 1985 Helsinki, Finland) A giant of Finnish design, Tapio 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.

Description

A Sterling silver tapered art-object, mounted on a teak base. The two sides of this object together form an S-shape.

This beautiful piece, commenly referred to as the "Liekki" or "Flame", was designed by Tapio Wirkkala in 1960.

"Liekki's" were made in three sizes. The middle sized one - like this example - were never released in serial production and were only "Handmade to Order" making them the rare most sought after "Liekki".

It is fully hallmarked on one of the upper sides.

Price including VAT: Sold