Bowl (2) - Glass

Two beautiful, large art glass shallow bowls or rimmed plates designed by Timo Sarpaneva in the mid-1960s for IITTALA Glassworks (Finland). Model number 2611. These pieces are from the ‘RIITA’ series — a collection of such bowls or plates that were produced in three sizes. The ones on offer here are the large- and medium-sized ones. The large piece is not easily found. The objects have a mottled/ice textured underside base with smooth uppers; internally they are flat and round. They are perfectly suited as a two-part centrepiece, as fruit or serving bowls, as vide-poches or jewellery trays, or as candleholders for a grouping of pillar or tealight candles.

The pieces are clearly in the Scandinavian /Nordic aesthetic, characterized by their minimalist and elegant design. The glass is clear and luminous, and allows for light refractions and reflections. The bowls/plates exemplify Sarpaneva’s great ability to design functional/utilitarian objects that are exquisitely artistic, organic and nature-inspired. Indeed, he is key figure in Finnish design history. These Finnish/Scandinavian modern ‘RIITA’ pieces are sought after by art glass collectors and enthusiasts.

MEASUREMENTS: The large piece is 24 cm in diameter and 4.3 cm high. Heavy at almost 3 kg. The medium-sized piece measures 15.5 cm in diameter and 3 cm high.

CONDITION: Both are fine vintage pieces with no chips, cracks or repairs. Some very minor signs of age and usage.

MARKS: The remains of the IITTALA ‘i’ sticker (designed by Sarpaneva himself for the glassworks company) is present on the larger piece.

TRANSPORT: The pieces will be very carefully wrapped and boxed, and shipped with a tracking code.

CREATOR: Timo Sarpaneva (1926-2006) was a sculptor and designer from Finland. He is mostly known for his glass design but also worked in metal, wood, porcelain and textiles. Saparneva is considered to be Finland’s most influential artist of the 20th century. His work is characterized by being organic and nature-inspired, teaming with artistic and aesthetic expression, and at the same time his creations are highly functional and utilitarian.

IITTALA is a global Finnish design brand that is renowned for its exceptional glassware and dinnerware collections. Established in 1881, Iittala has a long and storied history of producing exquisitely crafted products that seamlessly blend art and function. Iittala's glass artists and their collections are a testament to Finnish/Scandinavian/Nordic art glass design excellence.