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Timo Sarpaneva

Timo Sarpaneva (1926-2006) was another of Finland's design greats. He worked at Iittala alongside Tapio Wirkkala, but always managed to create a unique language. His work in glass was particularly important; however, he also worked in ceramics, graphics, fabrics and metal. Sarpaneva created many unique shapes in glass, and often used the inventive technique of "stick blowing" or "steam blowing" as a part of the process. "Stick blowing" uses a water-soaked, wooden stick to create a cavity in molten glass by ramming the stick quickly into the glass melt, generating steam, which forms the cavity.

Sarpaneva began creating designs for Iittala in 1949. In 1954 he was awarded the first of many Milan Triennale grand prizes and medals. He received the Lunning Prize in 1956. His significant designs in glass included the Devil's Series, Orkidea, Lancet and many other unique forms that suggest sculpture.