- 135
'HOPEAKUU' PENDANT, TAPIO WIRKKALA, 1971
Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
Designed as a series of articulated concentric rings, to a curb link chain, length approximately 680mm, diameter approximately 110mm, maker's marks, Finnish hallmarks for Helsinki, 1971, 'Hopeakuu' translates as 'Silver moon'.
Literature
Cf: Museum of Art and Design Helsinki, Tapio Wirkkala, Eye, Hand and Thought, Werner Soderstrom Corporation Helsinki, 2000, pages 192-193 and 171 for examples of silver jewellery by Tapio Wirkkala and images of the 'Hopeakuu' ('Silver moon') jewellery.
Condition
Stamped with 925H for sterling silver, H probably representing Helsinki. Maker's marks NW for Nilo Westerback. Finnish hallmarks for Helsinki, S7 for 1971. Highly articulated. Tarnished could benefit from a careful professional clean, light scratches consistent with wear. Screw back fittings. Weighing appoximately 50.3 grams. Two rings slightly bent. In very good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was one of the pioneers of Finnish industrial art who gained international recognition in the years following the Second World War. Wirkkala's works range from exclusive creation of art glass to mass-produced everyday objects, from unique pieces to beer bottles, incandescent lamps and banknotes. He was also a charismatic and encouraging teacher. Tapio Wirkkala designed dozens of cutlery series, most of which have never been produced.