Paavo Tynell ceiling lamp

This rare ceiling lamp, model 9068 often referred to as the Starry Sky, was designed by Paavo Tynell and produced by Taito Oy in Finland during the 1950s. The lamp is constructed with a black lacquered metal body combined with brass elements and a glass diffuser, creating a characteristic interplay of light and shadow. The perforated metal shade is arranged in a precise geometric grid, allowing finely scattered points of light to pass through, which is a well-known decorative and technical feature in Tynell’s work.

The lamp has a rectangular body with softly rounded corners and an upper cylindrical brass mount. The lower section consists of brass grid louvers that direct light downward while diffusing reflections across the ceiling. This combination of materials and shapes gives the lamp both a utilitarian and sculptural quality, characteristic of Scandinavian mid-century lighting design. The black lacquered surface shows punctured star-like perforations that contribute to the atmospheric lighting effect when the lamp is illuminated.

Paavo Tynell was one of Finland’s most influential lighting designers and co-founder of Taito Oy, the company responsible for some of the most technically refined and artistically expressive luminaires of the mid-century period. His work is known for its sophisticated metalwork, craftsmanship, and ability to merge modernist forms with delicate decorative elements. Taito Oy produced many of Tynell’s iconic lamps, combining industrial production with detailed hand-finished components.

The condition is good vintage with small signs of usage consistent with age, including minor surface wear to the lacquered metal and natural patina to the brass components. These traces reinforce the authenticity and age of the piece without affecting its functionality.

Dimensions measure 40 cm in width, 18 cm in depth, and 22.5 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 15.7 inches by 7.1 inches by 8.9 inches.