Kaj Franck

Kaj Franck

Finland, 1911-1989

Kaj Franck was a Finnish designer of glass and tableware. Though he also worked as an educator, his 1953 Kilta line of tableware for Arabia became a massive international hit. Franck is known as an icon of Finnish design, focusing only on the essential elements. Franck has earned numerous awards and prizes, and his work is featured in various design museums. Franck’s most famous objects include the Teema tableware collection and Kartio line of glassware, both produced by Iittala.

Kaj Franck realized a powerful truth in his distinguished career: simple is beautiful. Despite the world moving at an ever-fastening pace, from one decade to another, that simple truth remains. His inspiration and principles began a tradition in Finnish design, which is still alive and strong today.