Vintage crystal object, known as Lehti (Finnish for leaf), reflects the hallmark organic aesthetic of Tapio Wirkkala - one of Finland’s most renowned midcentury designers.
Hand-blown and engraved, the piece is a poetic interpretation of a leaf, though its softly curved, shallow shape also evokes the form of a delicate boat or vessel adrift on still water. The piece is signed: Tapio Wirkkala Iittala 1954.
The surface is intricately decorated with fine, rhythmic engraving that mimics the natural veining of a leaf, giving it both tactile and visual texture. The technique with combination of manual cold working and detailed surface cutting demonstrates Wirkkala’s mastery of material and form. Light refracts gently through the clear glass, emphasizing the contours and depth of the object.
His signature glass series became icons of Scandinavian style. Some, such as Ultima Thule, are still in production today.
Tapio Wirkkala worked for a long time at the flagship Iittala art glass factory in Finland and also collaborated with Germany’s Rosenthal. He created glass objects, tableware, lamps, jewelry, and more.
He was a multiple winner at the Milan Triennale, awarded the prestigious Pro Finlandia medal, and later became an Academician of the Arts.
Wirkkala’s works are housed in major museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, the Design Museum in Finland, the Glass Museum, and many others. A park in Helsinki is named in his honor.
1952–1960.
Iittala Art Glass Factory.
Excellent vintage condition.
Length is 8 cm.
