Aarikka Kitka brooch by Kaija Aarikka, Finland, 1950s-1960s

Museum level early Aarikka brooch from the Kitka series, designed by Kaija Aarikka. This is one of the early forms that helped define Aarikka’s jewellery language: wood, metal, movement, clean sculptural shape and a strong sense of Finnish modern design.

The brooch has a long narrow form, almost like a stylised leaf, shuttle, boat or seed pod.

Colour and Surface

The colour is deep red with a dark cherry and wine tone. The surface shows the natural texture of wood under the colour, which gives the brooch more depth than a flat painted finish.

Museum Context

The Kitka series belongs to the early history of Aarikka jewellery. A brooch from this series is represented in the permanent exhibition of the National Museum of Finland, which makes this model especially interesting for collectors of Finnish design and early Aarikka pieces.

Details

Designer: Kaija Aarikka
Maker: Aarikka
Series: Kitka
Origin: Finland
Period: 1950s to 1960s
Material: wood, metal
Item: brooch
Length: 8 cm
Colour: deep red, dark cherry, burgundy tone
Condition: very good vintage condition

Condition

Very good vintage condition.

There are light signs of age and handling.

For Wearing and Collecting

This Kitka brooch is a strong example of early Aarikka design. It is wearable, but also has clear collector value because of its early date, recognisable form and museum connection. It works well on a coat, wool jacket, linen dress or scarf, where the long shape and deep red colour can stand out without looking heavy.