Butler, one of the most stunning pieces in Iittala’s Birds by Toikka collection, is the epitome of the subtle humour often evident in Toikka’s designs. Inspired by a genuine old-fashioned butler, the dignified glass bird stands tall with his pointed, prominent beak facing forward. Butler is a true specimen of Iittala’s master glassblowers’ craftsmanship, as it requires the use of the demanding filigree technique in which thin glass rods are melted under a layer of glass to create stripes in different colours.
The first glass birds of Birds by Toikka collection were designed in 1972 by Professor Oiva Toikka, renowned for his unique contribution to Finnish art glass over the past half-century. So far over 400 species have been created, some of them more enduring in production than others. Each bird is a mouth-blown, unique individual, signed with the artist’s name. The passing of time enhances the value of these art objects – that is why Birds by Toikka are cherished and valued gifts and irresistible to collectors around the world.
