Timo Sarpaneva (1926-2006) was an influential Finnish designer, sculptor, and educator best known in the art world for his innovative work in glass. Born in
Helsinki, Finland. He went on to attend the Institute for Industrial Arts in Helsinki in 1948. While he received his training in graphic design, he spent the majority of his career doing industrial design for Iittala. Timo Sarpaneva crafted items that were sleek, modern and functional. He designed many iconic Iittala items, including the Festivo candleholders, the Suomi dinnerware line and Sarpaneva cast iron cookware. He is also credited with designing the company’s recognizable i-logo.