PITCHER (TURQUOISE) 1609

A model designed in 1954 and manufactured from 1955 to 1965. Initially, it had a slightly tapered shape, but when it was sold as a gift set with tumbler 2744 in 1955, the design was changed to a straight shape to fit into a cylindrical package.

The handle-less structure was intended for rationality, such as cost reduction through simplified manufacturing processes, reduced risk of damage, and space-saving during transport and storage. It is a pitcher that embodies functional beauty, derived from problem-solving.

It is formed by blow molding (swirl blowing), and individual differences can be seen in size, glass thickness, and spout shape.

One of a series that won the Grand Prix at the 1957 Milan Triennale.

*In good condition with no noticeable damage.

KAJ FRANCK｜カイ・フランク｜1911–1989｜FINLAND

Kaj Franck is one of the leading designers representing 20th-century Finnish modern design. He studied under Arttu Brummer at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in Helsinki (now Aalto University). After graduating, he worked in a wide range of fields including furniture, interiors, and textiles.

In 1945, at the request of Kurt Ekholm, he was appointed chief designer at Arabia and was responsible for revamping tableware essential for post-war daily life. In 1946, he became a glass designer at Iittala after winning an award in the Karhula-Iittala competition, but in 1950, he transferred to Nuutajärvi, which became part of the Wärtsilä group along with Arabia, and as director, he began designing glassware with a shared philosophy with Arabia.

Kaj Franck's design philosophy, also known as "the conscience of Finland," is based on the ideas of "design for the masses" and "the social responsibility of designers." He designed many universal products that could be used for a long time, using simple geometric forms and colors devoid of ornamentation.

Arabia's KILTA (now TEEMA) series and Nuutajärvi's tumbler 5027 (now KARTIO) series are long-selling products that are still manufactured by Iittala today. At the same time, Franck also created many artistic unique glass pieces at Nuutajärvi using an artisan approach, which reveals his artistic side.

From 1960, he also engaged in education at the School of Art and Design in Helsinki (now Aalto University), greatly influencing Finnish design education. He received numerous awards, including the Lunning Prize (1955), the Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale (1957), and the Compasso d'Oro (1957).