Ilmari Tapiovaara floor lamp

This is a rare and early example of the floor lamp known as “Maija the Bee” (Maija Mehiläinen), designed by Ilmari Tapiovaara and produced by Hienoteräs in Finland during the 1950s. The lamp is constructed of painted metal with brass fittings and features a cane-wrapped central section of the stem, which adds a warm tactile contrast to the otherwise industrial aesthetic.

The shade consists of a stacked series of white painted metal discs, forming a vertical column that diffuses light evenly and softly. This tiered construction creates a warm, ambient glow while preventing glare, reflecting Tapiovaara’s focus on human-centered and functional lighting design. The slender stem terminates in a tripod base with circular feet, providing stability while keeping the visual impression light and airy.

This piece is in good vintage condition with visible signs of age, including patina to the brass and some wear to the painted surfaces, consistent with decades of use. These traces of time lend the lamp authenticity and character, underscoring its mid-century origin.

Ilmari Tapiovaara was one of Finland’s leading designers, known for his furniture and lighting that combined functionality with modernist clarity. The Maija floor lamp remains one of his most recognizable designs, inspired by the soft, layered quality of light seen through window blinds at night.

The lamp measures 14 cm in diameter and 139 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 5.5 x 54.7 inches.