Tapio Wirkkala Vase

Style Brutalist
Country Finland

Mould Blown Glass Vase by Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala

Gerania Series, Model 3431, Signed
1970 - 81, Modernist/Brutalist, Finland
Excellent Vintage Condition
H 22cm, W 16.5cm, D 14.5cm. 2.8kg

This stunning sculptural vase features impressive solid mould blown clear glass reminiscent of ice. The British Museum, who has one of these in their collection, describes the form as 'a melting block of ice with incurved sides and droplets of ice clustered round the base, three of which form feet.'

This particular piece was designed in 1970 by Tapio Wirkkala (1915 - 1987), who is hailed not only as an icon of 20th century Finnish design, but is also internationally recognised as a significant figure in design history. It is said that Wirkkala was a recluse despite his international fame. The designer preferred to spend time alone in Finland's nature, from which he drew his inspiration for his minimal and stunningly beautiful design.

The world renowned Iittala glassworks produced this model between 1970 and 1981. It has an engraved signature on the underside 'Tapio Wirkkala 3431'