Brutalist Kivi-set bowl & candle holder | Humppila Finland

Small and substantial art glass bowl from the Kivi-set (Kivi means Stone in Finnish) series, designed by Pertti Santalahti for Humppila Glassworks in Finland. Produced during the 1980s, the piece has the weight and strong sculptural presence associated with Finnish glass of the period.

The irregular outline spreads outward like a natural stone formation. Clear textured glass surrounds a deep amber centre, creating a striking contrast between light and shadow.

Inspired by Stone and Ice

The design reflects a wider direction in Nordic glass, where artists looked closely at natural surfaces and forms. Ice, rock, bark and moving water became sources for texture and structure.

Here the glass appears rough and almost frozen around the edges, while the darker central section gives the piece visual depth. Every curve catches the light differently, so the form changes as it is viewed from above or from the side.

Bowl and Candle Holder

The central recess can be used for a small candle, while the broad sculptural shape also works as a decorative bowl. Even without a candle, it has enough presence to stand alone on a table, shelf or console.

Pertti Santalahti

Pertti Santalahti was a Finnish glass designer known for expressive forms inspired by the natural world. His work for Humppila often explored the contrast between clear glass, darker colour and rugged surface texture.

Examples of his designs are held in Finnish museum collections, including the Finnish Glass Museum.

Details

Designer: Pertti Santalahti

Manufacturer: Humppila Glassworks

Series: Kivi Set

Origin: Finland

Period: 1980s

Material: Art glass

Colour: Clear glass with an amber centre

Function: Bowl and candle holder

Size: Approximately 16 to 16.5 cm across

Condition

Very good vintage condition with minor signs of age and use.