Alsak glass ashtray or vide poche designed by Tapio Wirkkala (1915-85) for Iittala in the 1970s. The outer edges are textured with ice-look – a finish pioneered by Wirkkala – and the piece features a flat polished rim, inner bowl and base. This collectors edition is in excellent vintage condition, as seen in photographs. In Finland, Wirkkala is to the decorative arts what Alvar Aalto is to design and architecture. A major figure in post-war design, his output makes frequent reference to the natural world and the arctic landscape of Lapland where he spent much of his time. Unique in form, breadth and ubiquity – his work can be found everywhere from postage stamps and bank notes, to collectors homes and museums.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsTransparentMaterialGlassNumber of items1Height5 cmWidth11 cmDepth11 cm