Paavo Tynell ceiling lamp

This rare ceiling lamp or flush mount, designed by Paavo Tynell and produced by Idman in Finland during the 1950s, is a quintessential example of Finnish modern lighting that combines delicate craftsmanship with elegant material composition. Tynell’s refined approach to lighting design is evident in the interplay between perforated metalwork, soft light diffusion, and architectural restraint.

The lamp features a circular brass frame with a smooth, shallow profile. The brass has developed a warm, aged patina over time, contributing to its rich surface character. Subtle perforations or decorative motifs—often found in Tynell’s work—are integrated into the brass frame, adding a gentle ornamental quality without disrupting the simplicity of the form. These perforations softly filter the light and enhance the ambient effect with a faint shimmer and shadow-play.

The central diffuser is made from yellow-tinted glass, which introduces a soft, warm hue to the light it emits. The glass is slightly domed and set within the brass structure, creating a cohesive and contained form that blends function with visual harmony. The gentle glow produced by the yellow glass enhances the atmospheric quality of the piece, a hallmark of Tynell’s lighting philosophy.

As a flush-mounted ceiling fixture, the design is especially suited for spaces where overhead clearance is limited, while still offering a decorative and luxurious lighting presence. It is ideal for corridors, entryways, bedrooms, or smaller living areas that benefit from warm, ambient illumination and a refined visual centerpiece.

The lamp measures 40.5 cm in diameter and 23 cm in height, which corresponds to approximately 15.9 inches in diameter and 9.1 inches in height.