Paavo Tynell 'Chinese Hat' Model 9602 , Finland 1950s

Paavo Tynell 'Chinese hat' model 9602 for Taito Oy, Finland, 1950s.

The 9602 floor lamp, also known as “Chinese Hat” was designed by Tynell for the Hotel Aulanko. The lamp features an interesting play of materials. The base is made of brass, the is stem is covered in cane and the lampshade is in off-white fabric. The top has a playful light quality with a subdued texture in the shade. It is balanced by the elegant but static form of the base. The lamp gives a warm ambient light to any environment. This version with the flat foot was produced circa 1950s. The switch box is marked 'Taito Oy', which is Paavo Tynells company name.

About the designer:

Paavo Tynell, who was born in Helsinki, Finland in 1890, started his career as a tin and blacksmith at the company Kory Oy. Simultaneously he studied at the Helsinki University of Industrial Arts, to which he graduated as a ‘master craftsman’ in 1913. In 1918, Tynell co-founded the metalwork and lighting company Oy Taito Ab. At first the company focused mostly on interior and exterior metalwork, such as statues and railings. Later, during the 1930s, Taito also began producing lamps for the lighting sector. Both Alvar Aalto and Kaj Franck would design works for the company.