Description
DESCRIPTION
A striking example of Finnish uranium glass, this vintage candle holder was designed by Tamara Aladin for Riihimäen Lasi. Its vivid citron-yellow colour, substantial geometric form and raised circular decoration give it a bold Scandinavian Modern appearance.
Beautiful in ordinary daylight, the glass undergoes a spectacular transformation beneath ultraviolet light, fluorescing an intense bright green. This combination of recognised Finnish design and strong UV reactivity makes it an appealing collectable for enthusiasts of uranium glass, Scandinavian glass and mid-century modern design.
Tamara Aladin and Riihimäen Lasi
Tamara Aladin was an important Finnish glass designer closely associated with Riihimäen Lasi during the post-war period. Her work is recognised for strong sculptural forms, textured surfaces and distinctive geometric decoration.
Riihimäen Lasi was founded in Riihimäki, Finland, in 1910. The company became one of Finland’s leading glass manufacturers, producing domestic glassware alongside decorative and modern art glass. Riihimäen Lasi worked with several notable Finnish designers and remained in operation until 1990.
Design and Appearance
This compact candle holder has a square, architectural form composed of two gently stepped sections. Raised circular decoration appears around the exterior, creating visual depth and allowing light to move through the thick moulded glass.
The central opening accommodates a standard taper candle. The original Riihimäen Lasi foil label remains attached, providing valuable confirmation of the manufacturer.
The glass appears citron yellow in normal lighting. When illuminated with ultraviolet light, it produces the brilliant green fluorescence characteristic of uranium glass. Photographs taken in both ordinary and UV lighting are included to demonstrate the dramatic change in appearance.
Details
Designer: Tamara Aladin
Manufacturer: Riihimäen Lasi
Country of Origin: Finland
Object Type: Taper Candle Holder
Material: Uranium Glass
Colour: Citron Yellow
Production Style: Pressed Glass
Features: Strong bright-green UV fluorescence
Label: Original Riihimäen Lasi foil label attached
Period: Vintage, mid-to-late twentieth century
Measurements
Height: 10 cm
Width: 9 cm
Depth: 9 cm
Weight: 416 grams
Condition
Presented in very good vintage condition with no chips, cracks or repairs observed. Minor surface wear may be present consistent with age and previous use.
The original Riihimäen Lasi foil label remains attached and displays some age-related wear. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description.
The candle shown in the photographs is for display purposes only and is not included.
Collecting Uranium Glass
Uranium glass was produced by adding a uranium compound to the molten glass mixture as a colourant. Its most recognisable characteristic is the brilliant green fluorescence produced when the glass is exposed to suitable ultraviolet light.
This dramatic reaction makes uranium glass particularly effective when displayed in a dedicated UV-lit cabinet. Even a small collection can create an impressive display, especially in a darkened room or at night.
This Riihimäen Lasi candle holder offers an attractive combination of Finnish design history, original labelling and strong uranium-glass fluorescence.
Explore our Uranium Glass collection and visit the TMC Emporium Uranium Glass Collecting Guide to learn more about its history, manufacture, identification, UV fluorescence and safe display.
Explore More
Learn more about the history, manufacture, identification, fluorescence and safe display of uranium glass in our Uranium Glass History, Identification, UV Glow & Collecting Guide:
Browse more vintage and collectable uranium glass available from TMC Emporium:
About TMC Emporium
TMC Emporium offers an evolving collection of vintage, collectable and decorative items sourced throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria. Each item is individually photographed and described, with care taken to accurately represent its condition.
TMCEJC-0000065 KIT
