A hammered and embossed silver dish, “Karhunkaato” (Bearhunt). Designed by Tapio Wirkkala in 1948 and executed by the craftsmen of A. Tillander, Helsinki in 1955.
Tapio Wirkkala designed this “Bearhunt” dish for a competition issued by Helsinki-based jewelry company A. Tillander in 1948 and won 1st prize for his entry. This dish was never serial produced and only few were ever made between 1948 and the late 1950’s.
This example was made in 1955 and is in very good condition. The embossing is crisp there are no dents or inscriptions present. The dish is full hallmarked on the back.
About Tapio Wirkkala
Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was a Finnish designer and artist, best known for his work in glass and other materials. Born in Hanko, Finland, Wirkkala studied at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in Helsinki and later at the Helsinki University of Technology. Throughout his career, Wirkkala worked in a wide range of mediums, including glass, ceramics, metal, and wood, and was known for his innovative use of materials and his ability to create pieces that were both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Wirkkala’s work is characterized by his use of clean lines, organic shapes, and natural forms. He was particularly inspired by nature and was known for his ability to capture the essence of organic forms in his designs. For example, one of his most famous pieces is the “Birch” vase, which was created by casting liquid glass into a mold made from the trunk of a birch tree. This piece is a prime example of Wirkkala’s ability to combine his love of nature with his expertise in glassblowing techniques.
In addition to his work in glass, Wirkkala was also highly regarded for his work in ceramics. He collaborated with several Finnish ceramics companies, including Arabia and Iittala, and was known for his ability to create pieces that were both beautiful and functional. Some of his most famous ceramics designs include the “Finlandia” vase and the “Rye” dish. These pieces, like much of Wirkkala’s work, are recognized for their simple yet elegant designs and their timeless appeal.
Wirkkala was also a prolific industrial designer and worked with a number of well-known Finnish companies, including Kultakeskus, Nuutajärvi, and Iittala. He was known for his ability to create functional and stylish products that were made with the highest quality materials. For example, he designed a range of cutlery for Iittala that is still in production today and is considered to be a classic example of Finnish design.
Throughout his career, Wirkkala received numerous awards and honors for his work. He was a member of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Finland, and his work was exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. Despite his success, Wirkkala remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He once said, “Design should be like a river, flowing and changing with time.”
Marked
A. Tillander mark (triangle with stylized tree), Finnish National control mark (heart and crown), 813H (813/1000 silver fineness), Helsinki mark (boat) and yearmark B7 (1955).
Execution
Handmade by Tillander. Designed in 1948, only a handful of pieces were produced.
Condition
This dish is in very good condition, Some minor scratches consistent with age and use. No inscriptions.
Literature
Marianne Aav, TAPIO WIRKKALA eye, hand and thought p164 (illustrated), p. 373
Dimensions
Height 2,5 cm
Width 21,5 cm
Depth 19,5 cm
Weight 295 grams
