A rare and highly decorative oversized wooden ostrich sculpture by Kaija Aarikka, one of Finland’s most celebrated designers. This exceptional XXL example was most likely produced in the late 1970s, during the height of Aarikka’s iconic animal series.
Beautifully crafted from solid pine, the sculpture showcases Aarikka’s signature language of turned forms—spheres, cylinders, and flowing curves—assembled into a playful yet sculptural composition. The exaggerated proportions, particularly the generous body and sweeping neck, give the piece a strong visual presence, far beyond that of standard retail versions.
The tail is formed from a cluster of hand-turned wooden balls, strung together in classic Aarikka fashion, adding movement and texture. The entire piece sits on a substantial pedestal base, reinforcing its function as a display or showroom model.
Dating & craftsmanship
Several features point to an early production period:
The warm, honey-toned pine with visible knots and natural grain is characteristic of Aarikka’s 1970s material use
The slightly organic finish and subtle variations reflect handcrafted production rather than later, more standardized output
The large scale and pedestal construction strongly suggest a shop display or special presentation piece, typically produced during the original design’s peak popularity
