Paavo Tynell table lamp

This is a rare mid-century table lamp, model 5061, designed by Finnish lighting master Paavo Tynell and produced by Taito Oy in Finland during the 1950s. The lamp is constructed entirely in brass and showcases Tynell’s hallmark use of decorative perforation, refined metalwork, and sculptural silhouette.

The lamp features a broad, dome-shaped brass shade perforated with a constellation of geometric pinholes arranged in a radial pattern from the center and bordered with a zigzag motif. These perforations are both ornamental and functional, allowing filtered light to pass through and project atmospheric patterns onto nearby surfaces when the lamp is lit. The brass shade is precisely formed with a shallow profile and a slightly upturned edge that lends it a floating, delicate appearance.

The stem is an elegant tapering cylinder that supports the shade and connects to a simple, circular base. The proportions are balanced, with the slender shaft rising seamlessly from the base and culminating in a hidden internal mount for dual sockets. The underside of the shade reveals the structure’s clarity, with the lighting arms subtly integrated to avoid visual distraction. The lamp’s wiring exits discreetly from the underside of the base, ensuring clean presentation.

The entire lamp is finished in a warm golden brass with a naturally aged patina, giving the surface a soft, matte character. The condition is excellent with only minimal surface wear consistent with careful preservation and age. The lamp functions well and maintains its original fittings.

Paavo Tynell was one of the most celebrated Scandinavian lighting designers of the 20th century, known for blending artisanal detailing with industrial sensibility. His work with Taito Oy during the mid-century period defined Finnish lighting aesthetics and contributed significantly to international interest in Nordic modernism. Model 5061 exemplifies his commitment to refined craftsmanship, subdued ornamentation, and poetic lighting effects.

The lamp measures 36.5 cm in height and 39 cm in diameter, approximately 14.4 inches high and 15.4 inches across. This piece is a fine example of mid-century Scandinavian design and an increasingly rare collectible work by Paavo Tynell.