Designer: Helena Tynell

Hellin Helena Tynell (1918–2016) was born in Äänekoski, Finland. After finishing school in 1938, she studied model design in Helsinki, graduating in 1943. Initially she designed ceramics and lighting, but in 1946 she shifted focus entirely to glass when she joined Riihimäki Glassworks.

Career at Riihimäki

Over the next three decades, Tynell became one of Riihimäki’s most prolific creators. She designed both functional pieces and art glass, introducing iconic series like the Aurinkopullo (“Sun Bottle”, 1964–74) and the "Sunflower" vase. These items, featuring bold curves and rich colors, combined elegance with industrially scalable production.

International & Freelance Work

In 1976, Tynell moved to Germany and began designing for Glashütte Limburg and other European firms. During this time she expanded into glass lighting, creating striking “bubble” pendant lamps and flush mounts. Many of these pieces showcase her love for texture and playful form.

Legacy & Recognition

Her vases and sculptures are found today in the Finnish Glass Museum and in collections across Europe. The Aurinkopullo was reissued in 2018 to mark her 100th birth anniversary. Tynell’s career helped define Finnish midcentury glass, blending artistic experimentation with everyday usability, and she remains a pioneer of Scandinavian glass design.