Paavo Tynell ceiling lamp

This very rare ceiling lamp, model 9060 — often referred to as The UN Lamp — was designed by Finnish designer Paavo Tynell and produced by Taito Oy in Finland between 1950 and 1952. It was originally created for the Secretary-General’s office at the United Nations headquarters in New York, reflecting Tynell’s mastery in combining refined craftsmanship with technical innovation and poetic expression through light.

The lamp is made entirely of brass with a perforated conical shade and a glass diffuser beneath. The surface is carefully hand-pierced with a constellation of small holes, allowing light to filter through in a soft, atmospheric pattern that recalls a starry sky. The lower section features concentric brass rings that conceal the bulb and diffuse the light downward, while the open upper surface reflects illumination onto the ceiling. When lit, the perforations produce a delicate play of light and shadow, one of Tynell’s most characteristic design elements. The lamp is suspended by a Y-shaped brass rod connected to a rounded ceiling cup, maintaining both visual balance and a sense of lightness.

Paavo Tynell (1890–1973) is widely regarded as one of Finland’s most important lighting designers and a pioneer of modern Scandinavian lighting. Trained as a metalsmith, he co-founded Taito Oy in 1918, which became Finland’s leading lighting manufacturer. Tynell’s designs often merged industrial and artisanal techniques, combining brass, glass, and perforation in ways that transformed light into a decorative element. His work for public and private interiors during the mid-century period established him internationally, particularly through collaborations with architects such as Alvar Aalto.

This example remains in good vintage condition with small signs of age and patina consistent with use. The brass surface retains its original tone and sheen, showing a natural aged depth. The lamp measures 55 cm in diameter (21.7 inches) and 52 cm in height (20.5 inches).