Oiva Toikka candlestick

This very rare glass candlestick or vase, designed by Oiva Toikka and produced by Nuutajärvi Notsjö in Finland, is an exceptional example of Finnish mid-century glass artistry. Characterized by its bold form and vivid coloration, the piece demonstrates Toikka’s unique ability to fuse sculptural elegance with playful material expression.

Executed in deep cobalt blue glass, the object commands attention through both color and form. The intensity of the blue is consistent throughout, enhancing the sense of unity and visual weight while allowing light to interact dynamically with the surface. This saturation of hue is typical of Toikka’s work during his early period at Nuutajärvi Notsjö, where he frequently explored the interplay between form, transparency, and color.

The silhouette is distinctly sculptural. The upper disc functions as a platform for a candle or as the flared rim of a vase, depending on intended use. Below it, the stem is composed of stacked, rounded volumes that alternate in scale. These bulbous forms create a rhythmic vertical progression that brings a sense of movement and balance to the piece. The base is solid and slightly domed, grounding the composition both visually and physically.

This hybrid functionality—as both a candlestick and a vase—reflects the Scandinavian tradition of utilitarian objects that double as art forms. The design also demonstrates the characteristic precision of Finnish glassmaking in the mid-20th century, especially under the Nuutajärvi Notsjö label, which was at the forefront of experimental glass production during this time.

Oiva Toikka (1931–2019) was one of Finland’s most influential glass designers. Best known for his Birds by Toikka series, his earlier sculptural glass work at Nuutajärvi reveals a more abstract and formalist dimension of his practice. His designs are celebrated for their originality, technical sophistication, and often whimsical forms—traits that are clearly present in this piece.

The condition of the candlestick or vase is excellent. The glass is free from cracks, chips, or major surface wear. The original Nuutajärvi Notsjö label remains intact, and the piece bears a hand-engraved signature on the underside, verifying its authenticity and design provenance.

The object measures 34.5 cm in diameter and 51.5 cm in height, which corresponds to approximately 13.6 inches in diameter and 20.3 inches in height.