Paavo Tynell for Taito Oy '9609' Pair of Floor Lamps in Cane and Brass

Paavo Tynell for Taito Oy, pair of floor lamps, model '9609', cane, bamboo, brass, lacquered steel, Finland, 1950s

The 9609 floor lamp by Finnish designer Paavo Tynell is a stunning showcase of elegance and intricate detail, a visual pleasure in many senses. The tripod base, with its distinctive beige lacquer, provides a striking foundation. The brass stem, elegantly wrapped in cane, introduces a subtle yet intriguing texture to the design. The wide, angular lampshade atop the stem offers a pleasing contrast in form. This harmonious blend of natural cane, bamboo, and lustrous brass with a touch of beige creates a truly captivating piece. The 9609 floor lamp excels in every aspect: craftsmanship, material use, and attention to detail. It is a remarkable work of design that stands out on all fronts.

The use of unconventional materials like wood, straw, and grain stalks for lampshades emerged in the 1940s, driven by the fabric shortages during World War Two. This scarcity led designer Paavo Tynell to get creative with his resources, resulting in lampshades that not only solved a problem but also added unique character to his creations.

Finnish designer Paavo Tynell (1890-1973) began his career as a blacksmith. After studying to become a master craftsman at the University of Art and Design in Helsinki, he founded his own manufacturing company named Taito Oy. During his career, he collaborated with fellow Finnish designers and architects such as Alvar Aalto. Their collaboration proved to be very fruitful and achieved Tynell’s reputation of “the man who illuminated Finland.” Tynell’s international design influence grew thanks to the Finland House located in New York and allowed him to see himself trusted with prestigious orders both for public buildings such as the UN but also for important private collections. Based on existing models, custom versions were ordered by the Finnish upper-class. Tynell's designs are characterized by organic forms and the use of perforated brass in combination with unusual materials for lighting such as straw and cane.