Set of 2 clear Karelia white wine glasses designed by Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The form is remarkably restrained, yet full of subtle tension between weight and lightness.
The bowl rises almost straight from the stem with very little decoration, allowing the proportions to carry the entire design. What makes Karelia memorable is the lower part of the glass. The heavy sculptural foot and compact stem create a grounded feeling rarely seen in Nordic stemware of the period.
The series fits naturally into both modern interiors and classic Finnish table settings. Beautiful for white wine, but equally strong as a small water or aperitif glass.
Designer
Tapio Wirkkala
One of the central figures of Finnish modern design, known for reducing objects to their essential shape without losing warmth or character.
Manufacturer
Iittala
Series
Karelia
Model 2103
Period
1965 to 1974
Material and Color
Clear glass
Dimensions
Height: 11.5 cm Diameter: 6 cm Capacity: 12 cl
Condition
Very good vintage condition.
Atmosphere and Placement
Karelia glasses work especially well in darker interiors, candle light, and minimalist table settings where the heavy lower section begins to reflect surrounding light. The shape feels distinctly Finnish in its balance of utility and sculptural presence.
