Iittala Ultima Thule

Ultima Thule

Inspired by the melting ice in Lapland, the Ultima Thule is design legend Tapio Wirkkala’s most famous work. Wirkkala originally created the surface of Ultima Thule in the 1960s after carving into a graphic mold. Ultima Thule is an exclusive design which reflects the thousands of hours spent perfecting the glass-blowing technique required to produce the effect.

Iittala Designer Tapio Wirkkala

TAPIO WIRKKALA

Tapio Wirkkala (1915–1985) was a master of glassware. He had a deep connection to nature, and his work beautifully captures the essence of Finnish landscapes in glass. He was particularly inspired by the melting ice of Lapland, a theme especially evident in his iconic Ultima Thule collection. In addition to glass design, his work spanned sculpture, graphic design, and even banknote design. During his active career, Tapio Wirkkala participated in international exhibitions and served as Artistic Director at the University of Art and Design for several years. He was awarded numerous prizes, including three gold medals at the Milan International Triennale in both 1951 and 1954.

Ultima Thule is one of Tapio Wirkkala's most famous works and has remained popular for decades. Each piece of Ultima Thule is handcrafted at the Iittala glass factory in Finland.
Iittala Kaamos Collection

Ultima Thule: Inspired by Finnish nature

Melted ice and handcrafted glass – that is Iittala Ultima Thule. Tapio Wirkkala was inspired by Finnish nature, especially the melting ice of the North. Ultima Thule highlights the uniqueness of Finnish nature. Each piece of Ultima Thule is handcrafted at the Iittala glass factory, just as it was during Tapio Wirkkala’s time.

Iittala Ultima Thule

Ultima Thule by Tapio Wirkkala

From the heat of molten glass and the chill of ice emerges the unique Iittala Ultima Thule. Tapio Wirkkala masterfully captures the rugged beauty of Finnish nature in glass, creating a design that is both recognizable and distinctive. Each piece of Ultima Thule is handcrafted at the Iittala glass factory.