PITCHER(BLUE) 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 to rationalize manufacturing processes, reduce costs, lower the risk of breakage, and save space during transport and storage. This pitcher 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 Milan Triennale in 1957.

*In good condition with no noticeable damage.

KAJ FRANCK｜カイ・フランク｜1911–1989｜FINLAND

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

In 1945, he was appointed chief designer at Arabia at the request of Kurt Ekholm, and was responsible for renewing tableware necessary 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, a group company under Wärtsilä (the same umbrella as Arabia), and as director, began designing glassware with a common 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 the designer." He designed numerous timeless products that can be used for a long time, using simple geometric forms and colors free 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. Meanwhile, at Nuutajärvi, he also created many highly artistic unique glass pieces with an artisanal approach, which shows Franck's artistic side.

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