27
26
Raisonné 03
Frequently cited as one of the world’s most beautiful
railway terminals, Helsinki Central Station is distinguished
externally by Wikström’s four towering statues, the
Lyhdynkantajat (‘lantern bearers’), and internally by
Tynell’s grand chandeliers that hang in the main hall. This
was not the only project that brought Tynell and Wikström
together – both were co-founders of Taito Oy, the company
which manufactured the lights.
Tynell’s neoclassical chandeliers are instantly recognizable
to those familiar with the station, representing homecoming
to many Finns. They have hung in the main hall since the
1950s, when they were installed to replace earlier, more
ornate designs that were destroyed in a fire that broke out in
one of the restaurants on June 14, 1950.
Comprising rings of frosted glass shades clutched like paper
scrolls in a polished brass frame, the magnificent chandeliers
have cast their warm, welcoming glow over the comings and
goings of Helsinki for over 70 years.
Although the station has gone through many changes
over the years, Eliel Saarinen’s landmark architecture
has been meticulously preserved. What was once the
ticket hall is today a thriving restaurant, with the old
ticket office’s clock now keeping time at the bar.
