WHY IT’S NOW

The vase’s fluid, organic form makes ‘Aalto’ a true classic

THE VASE HAS LOST NONE OF ITS ALLURE AND IS AS PRIZED TODAY AS IT WAS IN 1936

A perennial favourite with stylists, collectors and design junkies alike, the vase has lost none of its allure and is as prized today as it was in 1936. When the vase was originally conceived as part of the Aaltos’ design for the Savoy restaurant in Helsinki, one was placed on every table. Last year, the restaurant’s interiors were restored by Studio Ilse (below), and the vase was returned to its rightful place on tables once more. A version made from the factory’s waste glass was also made available as part of the brand’s 2020 ‘100% Recycled’ collection. To mark Iittala’s 140th anniversary this year, the ‘Aalto’ vase and other classic pieces will be released in two special colours, ‘Amethyst’ and

‘Dark Grey’ (shown opposite). Helsinki’s Design Museum will also be honouring the landmark by staging an exhibition dedicated to the brand’s history and social impact; ‘The Iittala – Kaleidoscope From Nature to Culture’, from 26 March until 19 September.