Iittala
Senaattori Glasses by Timo Sarpaneva for Iittala Finland 1970s Set of 7
Senaattori Glasses by Timo Sarpaneva for Iittala Finland 1970s Set of 7
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A rare complete set of seven Senaattori beer glasses designed by Timo Sarpaneva for Iittala, Finland, designed and produced between 1968-1981. Finding them together is exceptional—these glasses are typically sold individually. Having seven matching pieces in pristine condition makes this an especially valuable find within 1970s Finnish glass.
The Senaattori series stands out for its sculptural silhouette and the refined sobriety of its proportions. The design combines clean geometric lines with perfectly balanced volume, creating a glass with minimalist presence but a very distinct identity. The thick base reflects light with clean brilliance, while the body maintains impeccable transparency that enhances any beverage.
This set of seven Senaattori glasses is not simply a functional object—it's a piece of Finnish glass history. The sculptural form and luminous clarity transform light into art, creating subtle variations in tone and intensity throughout the day. This is the kind of design that celebrates the golden age of Scandinavian glass and becomes a treasured piece in any collection.
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Story
Designed in the 1970s, the Senaattori series represents the union of artistic glass and everyday use, bringing the sculptural quality of Finnish glass to the table. The series is characterized by its search for functional elegance, based on pure lines, balanced proportions, and absence of ornamentation. The transparency of the glass is the protagonist—an honest, luminous, and discreet material. Sarpaneva created a complete and coherent table service with different types of glasses under the same aesthetic language, embodying the spirit of 1960s–70s Nordic design: simplicity, utility, and accessible beauty for daily life.
About the Designer
Timo Sarpaneva (1926–2006) is one of the great names in Finnish design and an essential figure in 20th-century design. His work spans glass, metal, textiles, and industrial design, always with an innovative approach and deep understanding of materials. He won numerous awards at the Milan Triennials, where he consolidated the international reputation of Finnish design. He created the iconic red "i" logo for Iittala and experimented with revolutionary techniques such as "ice glass," exploring organic textures and irregular surfaces. His pieces are part of collections at MoMA, the Victoria & Albert Museum, and the Design Museum in Helsinki. His style combines craftsmanship, industrial precision, and a highly personal geometric aesthetic.
About Iittala
Since 1881, Iittala has been one of the most influential houses in Nordic glass. Its contribution to modern design is based on technical innovation, craftsmanship, and collaborations with iconic figures such as Sarpaneva, Tapio Wirkkala, and Kaj Franck. The Senaattori series is part of that golden period of Finnish design, where the goal was to offer useful, beautiful, and timeless objects for everyday life.
This complete set of seven Senaattori glasses offers a rare opportunity to acquire multiple pieces from an iconic series—equally suited to selective use, Nordic interior styling, or as a centerpiece in a curated collection of Scandinavian design. Each glass carries the quiet elegance and material honesty that define the best of mid-century Finnish craft.
Details
Manufacturer: Iittala, Finland
Series: Senaattori
Model: Beer Glass
Period: 1968-1981
Technique: Blown and pressed glass
Height: 14.5 cm
Diameter: 7.5–8 cm
Capacity: approx. 30–32 cl
Quantity: Set of 7 glasses
Condition
Minor wear may be present. No cracks or chips. As with all vintage pieces, this set may show signs of previous use and age. Any such marks are signs of authenticity, not flaws, and add to its unique character.