Paavo Tynell floor lamps

Rare pair of floor lamps, model 9602, designed by Paavo Tynell and produced by Idman in Finland during the 1950s. Executed in brass with hand-wrapped cane stems and finely crafted conical shades composed of wooden slats and cane, the lamps exemplify the refined material palette and exceptional craftsmanship associated with Finnish mid-century lighting. The wide, pyramid-shaped shades are crowned with solid brass finials, while the slender stems rise from circular brass bases, creating a composition of remarkable visual lightness despite the robust construction. The natural honey-toned cane and wood contrast elegantly with the warm golden patina of the brass, producing a restrained yet highly decorative appearance.

Paavo Tynell (1890–1973) is regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Scandinavian lighting design. A trained metalworker, he co-founded Taito Oy in 1918, Finland’s first major lighting manufacturer, where he developed a distinctive design language combining functionalism with delicate craftsmanship. His work is characterized by finely detailed brass construction, organic forms, and an innovative use of natural materials. Model 9602, commonly referred to as the “Chinese Hat” due to its broad conical shade, is among Tynell’s most celebrated designs. Originally conceived in the late 1930s for Hotel Aulanko, the model remained in production through both Taito and later Idman, becoming one of the defining icons of twentieth-century Finnish lighting design.

Idman was one of Finland’s leading lighting manufacturers and continued production of several of Paavo Tynell’s most successful designs after acquiring the rights to manufacture them. The company maintained the high production standards established by Taito, utilizing precision brass work alongside carefully selected natural materials. The woven cane structure of the shades filters the light softly while creating a distinctive interplay of light and shadow, projecting decorative linear patterns onto the surrounding space. The wrapped cane stems further emphasize the handcrafted quality of the design while introducing warmth and texture to the otherwise minimalist silhouette.

Both lamps remain in good vintage condition with minor signs of age and use consistent with careful preservation. The brass components display an attractive natural patina with light surface wear, while the cane wrapping and wooden slat shades remain well preserved. The shades retain their original structure with only minor age-related variations, and the lamps continue to produce the characteristic warm ambient illumination for which the model is renowned.

Dimensions: shade diameter 64.5 cm (25.4 in). Height: 151 cm (59.4 in) and 153.5 cm (60.4 in).