1970s ice bucket designed by Tapio Wirkkala, one of the most influential figures in 20th-century Scandinavian design. The ice bucket comes from the "Seita" series—an exploration of elemental form that sits at the heart of his work for Iittala.
Wirkkala (1915–1985) was not only a designer but a sculptor at heart, deeply inspired by the Finnish landscape. Ice, bark, stone, and wind-shaped surfaces recur throughout his work, and the "Seita" range distills those influences into heavy, tactile glass that feels carved rather than made. Introduced in the 1970s, the series includes ice buckets, bowls, and vessels unified by their rugged vertical textures and uneven rims, each piece slightly different due to the demanding glassmaking process.
This example shows the range at its most expressive: thick, mouth-blown glass with striations that catch and refract light like melting ice, paired with a solid, functional form intended for everyday use yet elevated to sculptural object. The name "Seita" references sacred natural sites in Sámi culture, underscoring Wirkkala’s respect for nature and tradition. Both utilitarian and poetic, the piece reflects a moment when Finnish design confidently blurred the line between industrial production and art—making it as compelling on a bar cart as it is as a statement object within a collection of modern design.
In very good vintage condition. The square chromed-metal handle allows the bucket to be carried easily. There are some small surface scratches to the chrome handle but no chips or cracks to the glass. As beautiful as it is functional.
Dimensions: Diameter: 13.5 cm Ice Bucket Height: 11cm Height to the top of the handle: 17.5cm Handle Width: 15cm
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