Tapio Wirkkala Handmade & Hammered Silver Boat Model TW 9, Kultakeskus 1959

Tapio wirkkala was an exceptionally talented designer regardless of the materials used. Although he established super stardom with his art glass objects in the 1950s by winning a number of Grand Prix and other awards in the Milan Triennials, his hand made silver objects were also remarkably futurisric and innovative.

Tapio was always a hands on experience kind of designer. He always visited the work area of his objects and collaborated with the glass blowers or other handy and craftsmen that created the different items.
Here we have a handmade silver “boat”. This model TW9 was produced in two sizes, this larger size is quite rare and was only made to order. It is finished by hand hammering the surface. It is so simple, minimalistic, and an elegant work of art that can be used as a decorative centerpiece in any interior. It can also be handy as a silver serving dish, if you have the heart to use it as such.
The boat is fully stamped, signed and hallmarked from 1959.

Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was a genius designer and sculptor who was recognized as a leading figure in Finnish arts and crafts in the “golden era” of 1950s-1960s after the wars. Sometimes even compared to Da Vinci, his incredible understanding of geometry resulted in some truly amazing pieces which you can’t compare to any other designer’s work. He used a number of different materials in his designs including glass, wood, plywood, silver and ceramics, and always had a very unique and distinct approach to his designs. Wirkkala has been awarded a great number of Triennale awards, gold medals and special recognitions, and is internationally acclaimed.
Rarely does a designer command such an expansive talent and career as Wirkkala did. Inspired by nature and armed with exceptional understanding of geomety and ratios, his designs literally shaped much of our daily lives.
Designs ranging from daily items such as money, jewellery, cutlery, working tools, furniture, logos, etc. to purely artistic creations.
You name it, he designed it!