Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985)

TAPIO WIRKKALA was born in Hanko, Finland, in 1915. He is considered one of the twentieth century’s most influential designers. He was also a sculptor.

Beginning in the early 1930s, Wirkkala applied his talents to work in glass, metal, wood, and ceramics. His range was extraordinary; he mastered multiple materials and designed unique artworks while also mass-producing everyday objects such as ketchup bottles. He graduated from the School of Art and Design in 1936 and quickly developed a reputation as a master of silver and glasswork. A primary partner in silver for thirty years was the firm of Kultakeskus. After World War II, until the end of his life, Wirkkala was also associated with the glassmaking firm Iittala. Wirkalla’s design genius was recognized early and often, and participated in numerous international exhibitions and fairs.

Visit our exhibition page for "MEDITATIONS ON MODERNISM: Thirty Years of Jewelry Design by Jacqueline Rabun, 1990–2022 WITH Selections from Notable Post-WWII Nordic Jewelers" to learn more about the innovative and exquisite Nordic jewelry in our collection.