Aarikka Finland | Designer Kaija Aarikka | Rare Rypäle brooch

Overview

Rare early vintage wooden brooch from the Rypäle series by Aarikka Finland, circa 1960s. The name Rypäle means grape in Finnish, and the form suits it well: a compact cluster of wooden beads gathered into a rounded, tactile shape.

The form is made by the founder of Aarikka Finland, Kaija Aarikka.

The brooch has the warmth and directness of early Aarikka design. It is decorative, but still natural and simple in the Finnish way, with the beauty carried by wood grain, rhythm and hand assembled form.

Design

The composition is built from dozens of wooden beads attached to a round wooden and metal base. Each bead has its own tone, from honey brown and chestnut to deeper olive brown, creating a rich surface without painted decoration.

Small brass toned metal details at the bead ends add a quiet shine and give the brooch a more finished, jewelry like character. From the front it looks almost like a bunch of berries or a small wooden fruit cluster, with visible grain and soft variations in colour.

Maker and Period

Maker: Aarikka, Finland

Designer: Kaija Aarikka

Series: Rypäle

Period: 1960s

Material: wood, metal base and metal fittings

Technique: handmade and hand assembled

Measurements

Diameter: 5 cm

Condition

Excellent vintage condition.

The wooden beads show beautiful natural grain and age related tonal variation.

For Wearing and Collecting

A strong small piece of Finnish modern jewelry. It works well on linen, wool, denim or a simple coat, where the rounded bead structure can stand out clearly. Also a good piece for collectors of early Aarikka wooden jewelry, especially because the Rypäle series is less commonly found than later classic forms.