Nanny Still 'Pörriäinen' Large Vase

A large smoke-grey 'Pörriäinen' vase, designed by Nanny Still for Riihimäen Lasi Oy, Finland, 1963.

Nanny Still's name for this sculptural series is 'Pörriäinen', which translates into English as 'Bumblebee'. This unusually large example takes the form of a cylinder, with its scale and weight giving the vase a strong architectural presence.

The simplicity of the vase's body is contrasted by the extraordinary folded rim. The thick, rounded edge appears as a ring encircling the mouth of the vase. Adding further sculptural detail, the vase's hefty clear-glass foot is gently curved, allowing the substantial piece to appear as though it is floating.

The object dates from a period when Still was beginning to experiment with cased glass. Designs from this period, including 'Rex', 'Paraati' and 'Pörriäinen', share a bold and sturdy aesthetic, while retaining the subtle details and delicate characteristics so associated with Still's work. 'Pörriäinen's distinctive folded rim is both unconventional and technically challenging; Still explored various glassblowing techniques throughout her career, fully utilising the skill and knowledge of Riihimäki's glassblowers.

Produced in several forms and sizes, this exceptionally large cylindrical version is a rare example of the 'Pörriäinen' series.