maljakko

Maljakko is the Finnish term for a vase, a decorative vessel designed to hold flowers or to stand alone as an ornament in a room. A maljakko is typically made to be visually harmonious with interior design, and it can range from slender, tall forms to broad, bulbous shapes. Materials commonly used include glass, ceramic and porcelain, but metal, wood and contemporary polymers are also employed. In Finnish design, maljakko objects often balance form and function, with emphasis on clean lines and organic curves.

Notable examples: The Savoy vase, or Savoy-maljakko, designed by Alvar Aalto in 1936–37 for the Savoy Restaurant in Helsinki, is one of the most recognizable Finnish design icons. It is celebrated for its simple, curving silhouette and versatility as both a vase and a sculpture. Other designers such as Tapio Wirkkala and Timo Sarpaneva have produced vase designs that are highly regarded within Finnish modernism.

In everyday use, maljakko serves as a functional container for cut flowers or as a decorative object. It is common in homes, offices and public spaces, and gifts of a maljakko are a traditional present for occasions such as housewarmings or weddings. The term remains a standard word in Finnish for any vase, regardless of material or size.