Description
Paavo Tynell was a Finnish lighting designer and master metalworker. His design work combined craftsmanship, artistry, and functionality.
In 1918, Tynell co-founded Taito Oy, which became a central figure in Finnish lighting production as electric light became more widespread. He served as the company’s artistic director and chief designer until 1953, when Taito Oy merged with the Finnish lighting manufacturer Idman Oy.
Tynell’s lighting fixtures were particularly popular in the 1930s–1950s. His design language combined modernist features with forms inspired by nature, and his luminaires are known for their lightness, airiness, and decorative perforation — small star-shaped holes in the shades are among his most recognizable details.
The fixtures designed by Tynell gained international recognition especially after the Second World War. He collaborated with renowned architects such as Alvar Aalto and designed lighting for numerous Finnish public buildings. In the 1950s, Tynell also worked for the American company Lightolier, through which his designs were widely presented and sold across North America.
In the 2000s, interest in the lighting designs of Paavo Tynell has surged dramatically, and many models are now sold at international auctions.
Tähtitaivas (Starry Sky) is one of Paavo Tynell’s most well-known and beloved lighting designs. This model was manufactured by both Taito and Idman, and it was produced in several different sizes.
The way the light filters through the side perforations and the grille creates a beautiful starry-sky pattern on the ceiling — an effect that gave the lamp its name.
This Tähtitaivas ceiling lamp is in very good condition for its age.
Observations: Idman label. White “extra” paint on the top edge of the lampshade and the roof dome. Minor wear and couple of light scratches on the shade and grille. The functionality of the lamp has not been tested.
Designed in 1950s
Designer: Paavo Tynell (1890-1973)
Brand: Idman
Material and color: All white. White painted perforated metal shade, frosted glass panel above the white metal grille.
Size:
Total height approximately 24 cm
Width 40 x 40 cm
