1936 (Scandinavian Modern)

Aalto Savoy Vase

Alvar Aalto — Iittala, Finland

The Aalto Vase brings movement to a shelf or table through its irregular glass outline, with or without flowers.

A glass design from 1936

Alvar Aalto developed the form for the Karhula-Iittala glass design competition. The Savoy name connects it with the Helsinki restaurant. Comparisons with Finnish lake shores are an interpretation rather than a firmly established source for the shape.

An outline that keeps changing

Curves and indentations alter the silhouette as you move around it. Clear glass reveals stems and water; coloured glass gives the contour more emphasis.

Arrange a few stems

Let flowers follow the curves rather than filling the opening tightly. Empty, the vase needs little more than a quiet surface. On a dining table, choose a height that keeps conversations and views across the table comfortable.