THE ITEM
This beautifully bevelled work of 1970s Scandinavian Modernist design is by Pentti Sarpaneva (b.1925 - d. 1978) Finnish jewellery and decorative designer. This piece was produced by Oy Kumela glassworks for jewellers Torun Hopea.
Sarpaneva's style was influenced by elements of the rugged Finnish landscape, casting textures from materials such as tree bark and rock. Other inspirations included traditional Finnish lace and the metals he worked with.
The design of this piece encapsulates much of Sarpaneva's style, his inspirations and the Modernist design influences of the time. The graduating and staggered Grape purple glass surface shows off a number of textured and angular circular and semi-circular reliefs.
The form features a central column and is also bevelled at the base, making the overall shape jewel-like and heightening the ability for light refractions.
The piece is finished with the bronze collar that is decorated in Sarpaneva's rugged lace design which can be found in his jewellery designs.
CONDITION
Very good. No cracks or repairs to the glass. There are 2 negligible flakes on the rim and is mentioned for completeness. There is mild use wear to the bronze that is commensurate with the age of the piece. Please see photos as part of the condition report. The underside of the base is signed 'Pentti Sarpaneva' and 'Oy Kumela'.
MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.9" / 10 cm tall x c. 5.6" / 14.2 cm rim length and width (across widest point) Base is c. 3.5" / 9 cm in length and width. Unpackaged weight: c. 1.6 kg / 1,561 g
NOTES
Vase will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Pentti Sarpaneva (b.1925 - d. 1978) Sarpaneva trained in graphic
design, at the Institute of Industrial Art and following the war, began his design career in the late 1950s. He designed for Kalevala Koru Oy and later in 1967, he became artistic director for Turun Hopea, remaining there until his death.
Unique amongst his contemporaries, Sarpaneva would cast his designs straight from nature and the man-made environment, often using rocks and tree bark, as well as discarded rope and lace. During the height of his career, he was known for producing emotive, avant-garde, bold and eccentric designs.