A substantial vintage bowl from the Finlandia series, designed by Timo Sarpaneva for Iittala. Model 3355 is an uncommon low form with a wide circular opening, a heavy base and strongly sculpted walls.
The clear glass reveals a dense pattern of ridges, impressions and irregular surfaces. Light moves through the bowl in changing layers, making the texture especially visible from the side and from below.
The Finlandia Technique
Sarpaneva developed a distinctive production method for the Finlandia series. The glass was formed by hand in wooden moulds made from split logs. The heat of the molten glass altered the mould during production, so the surface of every finished piece developed its own pattern.
The marks, folds and rough textures visible throughout the glass belong to this manufacturing process and give the bowl its individual character.
Signed Art Glass
The bowl is signed on the base:
Timo Sarpaneva 3355
The signature, catalogue number and uncommon form make it a notable piece for collectors of Finnish glass and postwar Nordic design.
Details
Designer: Timo Sarpaneva
Manufacturer: Iittala
Series: Finlandia
Model: 3355
Origin: Finland
Period: 1960s
Material: Clear glass
Height: 6 cm
Diameter: 20.5 cm
Condition
Good vintage condition.
There is one larger chip and several smaller chips along the upper rim. The losses are clearly visible in the close photographs. The bowl remains stable and visually impressive. Chips along the upper rim of the vase are likely resulting from the complexity of the glassmaking technique
