Iittala Ultima Thule Bowl Value Guide

The Iittala Ultima Thule Bowl is a cornerstone of Finnish modernism, designed by Tapio Wirkkala to mimic the melting ice of Lapland. Its legendary status was cemented when it was selected for Finnair's first-class service, making it an essential piece for mid-century glass collectors.

What affects the value of Iittala Ultima Thule Bowl?

• Production era: Original 1960s and 1970s pieces often command a premium over modern reissues.
• Size and shape: Larger serving bowls or rare specific dimensions typically reach the $70+ price point.
• Condition: The presence of chips on the delicate textured points or 'flea bites' on the rim significantly reduces market value.
• Provenance: Items with original vintage packaging or documented history from the Finnair service era are highly sought after.

How to Identify Iittala Ultima Thule Bowl?

• Look for the distinct organic 'droplet' feet at the base of the bowl which are integrated into the textured glass pattern.
• Examine the surface for the signature 'melting ice' texture created using Wirkkala's innovative graphite mold technique.
• Check for the Iittala 'i' logo sticker or an etched 'Tapio Wirkkala' signature on the base of older vintage examples.
• Verify the clarity of the glass; authentic pieces are made from high-quality Finnish lead-free glass with no yellowing.

History of Iittala Ultima Thule Bowl

The Ultima Thule collection was designed by Tapio Wirkkala for Iittala, a renowned Finnish glass manufacturer. Inspired by the melting ice of Lapland, Wirkkala spent thousands of hours perfecting the unique texture and form. The design, first released in 1968, famously contributed to Finnair's in-flight serving of drinks, solidifying its place in design history.