Ultima Thule Jug / Carafe – Attributed to Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala

A beautifully tactile piece of Nordic modernism: this mid-century Finnish clear glass jug features an all-over textured surface that catches the light like ice and bark, paired with a sculptural flared base and a neat pinched pouring lip. It’s both functional and decorative, ideal as a water carafe, cocktail mixer, or simply as a statement piece on open shelving. Attributed to Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala, one of Finland’s most celebrated post-war design partnerships, known for nature-inspired textures and refined everyday forms. Details: Origin: Finland (attribution to Iittala) Designer: attributed to Tapio Wirkkala Material: clear pressed glass Height: approx. 22.5cm Colour: clear Styling notes: Looks superb in Scandinavian, mid-century modern, brutalist and contemporary interiors, especially near window light where the texture really glows. Post-war Finland became a powerhouse of modern design (1950s–1970s), with glass at the forefront, clean forms, nature inspired textures, and technically ambitious moulding. Iittala was one of the key glassworks exporting this look internationally. Tapio Wirkkala designed the Ultima Thule glassware in 1968, inspired by the melting ice in Lapland. The glassware was used first by Finnair in 1969, and later in their first class. It became the most popular glassware collection Iittala ever produced. Tapio Wirkkala (1915–1985) was among the most influential Finnish designers of the era, known for forms and textures referencing ice, bark, and Nordic landscapes, and for bridging sculptural expression with functional tableware. Textured clear glass like this sits squarely in that tradition designed to sparkle under light and feel tactile in use.