Tealight Valkea – Clear - Iittala

The Valkea collection of candleholders, designed by Finnish designer Harri Koskinen for Iittala in 2017, is a celebration of the light and warm ambience characteristic of Scandinavian homes. Inspired by the long autumn and winter nights in Finland, where the flickering flames of candles are essential to creating a welcoming atmosphere, Valkea embodies the essence of Nordic design: simplicity, elegance and functionality. With its soft profile and subtle colors, this collection has established itself as a contemporary Iittala classic.

The name “Valkea”, which means ‘light’ or “white” in Finnish, reflects Koskinen's intention to capture the spirit of Finland's dark seasons. In the Far North, where days shorten drastically in autumn and winter, Finns use candles to bring warmth and comfort to their interiors. Valkea photophores are designed to sublimate this use, transforming the glow of a tea light into a decorative element that evokes an intimate, soothing ambience. As Koskinen describes it, the collection aims to “bring a little piece of Finland” into every home, celebrating the beauty of light in the dark.

Made from mouth-blown glass, Valkea photophores bear witness to the exceptional skills of Iittala's craftsmen. Each piece is unique, bearing the subtle variations characteristic of handwork.

Designer 

Harri Koskinen

Harri Koskinen is renowned for his designs that combine innovation with respect for Nordic heritage. A graduate of the Lahti Design Institute and the Helsinki University of Art and Design, he has gained international renown with designs such as the Block lamp for Design House Stockholm, which won him the prestigious Compasso d'Oro in 2004, and the Pro Finlandia Medal. His collaborations with brands such as Artek, Marimekko, Muji and Venini testify to his versatility, covering furniture, glassware, textiles and lighting.

Koskinen strives to create solutions that are both innovative for the consumer and viable for the producer. With Valkea, he applies this philosophy by designing a simple yet powerful candle jar, capable of transforming the ambience of a space with a single flame. His approach, deeply rooted in Scandinavian minimalism, favors pure forms and quality materials, while infusing a touch of modernity.

Iittala: Finnish design defined by purity, functionality and the poetry of glass

A historic icon of Nordic design

Founded in 1881, Iittala is one of Finland most iconic design brands. Originally dedicated to blown glass, it soon became a cornerstone of Scandinavian design through its pursuit of simplicity, functionality and timeless beauty. Iittala represents a Nordic aesthetic built on honesty and clarity.

A legacy shaped by visionary designers

Iittala owes much of its fame to major designers such as Alvar Aalto, Kaj Franck and Tapio Wirkkala. Their creations, now global icons, express the essence of Finnish modernism through organic shapes, minimalism and deep respect for materials. The brand continues to reissue these masterpieces while collaborating with contemporary designers.

Mastery of blown glass and refined Nordic materials

Iittala craftsmanship is rooted in exceptional expertise in blown glass. Every vase, bowl or decorative object is made with precision in its Finnish workshops. The brand also works with ceramic, stainless steel and other materials, always prioritising durability, purity and long lasting quality.

A collection combining beauty and everyday functionality

Iittala offers a complete range: glassware, vases, tableware, decorative objects and iconic Finnish design pieces. Lines are clean, colours refined and forms built to last. Each item is conceived to be both beautiful and useful, following the core principles of Scandinavian design.

Timeless series that span generations

The Aalto collection, the Teema series, Kartio glassware and Ruutu vases are among the most celebrated pieces. These designs have become international symbols of Nordic aesthetics, blending simplicity and expressive form.

Conclusion: Finnish glass art shaped by tradition and modernity

Iittala expresses a pure and poetic vision of design, where craftsmanship, simplicity and durability come together. Choosing Iittala means bringing Nordic authenticity and timeless beauty into everyday life.