Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was perhaps Finland’s most famous internationally known designer. He brought his optimistic minimialism to thousands of objects from banknotes to cutlery, from plastic to porcelain, for some of the world’s most sophisticated manufacturers.

Wirkkala worked with Rosenthal AG in Germany for decades beginning in 1956, producing 15 porcelain tableware services and over 200 different objects. He carefully considered the ergonomics of these utilitarian pieces and he also developed an etched porcelain finish that was pleasing to the eye and touch that would be known as “silk matte.”

Tapio Wirkkala's 1970 Pollo bud vases for Rosenthal.

The “Pollo” vase, designed around 1970, is one of my favorite Wirkkala designs. Available in a variety of sizes, this, the smallest “chicken,” fits comfortably in my palm. Made in black or white porcelain, all share Wirkkala’s silk matte finish – they are wonderful objects to handle. Rows of raised dots eminate from the “neck” opening that sits to one end of the “body” of the bird-shaped vase. Its bottom is rounded, so it rocks gently back and forth – an animated little thing.