A rare Sterling silver dish, model TW 11 – Kultakeskus, Finland 1958

Tapio Wirkkala

Silver
7 ⨯ 32 ⨯ 17 cm
ConditionVery good
Price on request

Van Kerkhoff Art

• About the artwork
  A rare Modernist hammered Sterling silver leafshaped dish, model TW 11. Designed by Tapio Wirkkala in 1954. Handmade to order by the craftsmen of Kultakeskus in 1958.
  
  A simular dish is part of the famous Kakkonen collection, now shown by the Emma museum in Espoo, Finland. It is very similar to Model TW 8 which is smaller and not hammered and was made in serial production.
  
  This particular example is fully hallmarked underneath the base and is in very good condition.
  
  
  
  About Tapio Wirkkala
  Tapio Wirkkala (1915 Hanko, Finland – 1985 Helsinki, Finland) A giant of Finnish design, possessed an extraordinary creative spirit that knew no boundaries. His artistic repertoire traversed diverse materials and transcended conventional design disciplines, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and craftsmanship.
  
  The trajectory of Wirkkala’s illustrious career was set in motion by a momentous glass design competition held by the revered Iittala glassworks in 1946. It was during this transformative event that Wirkkala, alongside the esteemed Kaj Franck, emerged as the joint recipients of the first prize. This recognition propelled Wirkkala into the spotlight, setting the stage for his remarkable artistic journey.
  
  Wirkkala’s creative genius knew no bounds. His oeuvre spanned a vast spectrum, encompassing exceptionally beautiful glass art pieces, innovative industrial designs such as beer bottles and banknotes, meticulously crafted jewelry, evocative sculptures, and thoughtfully designed furniture. Each creation bore the unmistakable imprint of Wirkkala’s artistic prowess, showcasing his mastery over form, function, and aesthetics.
  
  Throughout his illustrious career, Wirkkala amassed a multitude of accolades, honorary titles, and a doctorate, cementing his position as one of the most revered figures in the design world. His remarkable achievements include three Grand Prix medals at the prestigious Milan Triennale in 1954, followed by yet another Grand Prix medal and gold medal at the Milan Triennale in 1960. These prestigious awards not only celebrated Wirkkala’s unrivaled talent but also underscored his profound impact on the global design landscape.
  
  Wirkkala’s creative journey was an embodiment of innovation, pushing the boundaries of design and challenging conventional norms. His unparalleled ability to infuse beauty into everyday objects and elevate them to the realm of art garnered admiration and acclaim from enthusiasts and experts alike.
  
  Today, we celebrate Tapio Wirkkala as a visionary pioneer who seamlessly merged artistry with functionality. His enduring legacy serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities of design, inspiring generations of artists and designers to think beyond the confines of tradition and embrace their creative instincts.
  
  Marked
  TW (Tapio Wirkkala), 916H (916/1000 silver fineness), Kultakeskus Oy mark (reclining lion) and Finnish National control mark (heart and crown). Yearmark E7 (1958). Kasityo (handmade)
  
  Execution
  Handmade to order. Kultakeskus Oy, Hämeenlinna, Finland 1958.
  
  Condition
  This silver dish is in very good condition, Some minor scratches consistent with age and use. No dents. No inscriptions.
  
  Literature
  Marianne Aav, Tapio Wirkkala eye, hand and thought p 361
  Tapio Wirkkala, A poet in glass and silver – Collection Kakkonen p.352
  
  Dimensions
  Height 7 cm
  Width 32 cm
  Depth 17 cm
  Weight 363 grams
• About the artist

  Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was a multitalented design genius, widely considered a leading figure of modern Finnish industrial art. Wirkkala's wide ranging portfolio spans from glass, furniture and product design to sculpture, city planning, art, graphics and even creating banknotes for the Finnish treasury.

  Throughout his incredibly productive career, Wirkkala received numerous awards including three gold medals at the Milan Triennale, the Lunning Prize, Pro Finlandia Medal and the Prince Eugen Medal.

  In 1946, Wirkkala won his first design award in a competition sponsored by Iittala that would mark a lifelong relationship with lasting effects on his career and the company. As Iittala’s artistic director, Wirkkala’s unique artistic vision helped establish the company’s global reputation.

  Throughout his legendary career, the uniquely talented artist created more than four hundred glass objects for Iittala, many of which, like the Ultima Thule and Tapio series remain popular today.

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