Mall Tomberg, the celebrated and influential textile artist from Estonia, has died at the age of 98. Born on July 19, 1927, in Tartu, she graduated from the Tallinn State Institute of Applied Arts in 1952 and had a distinguished career, working at the same institute until 1992 and serving as a lecturer and later a professor. Her dedication to the field was recognized with numerous awards, including the Kristjan Raua Prize in 1974 and the Estonian SSR State Prize for a carpet she designed for the Tartu University Library in 1982.

Throughout her life, Tomberg was not only a significant figure in the realm of textile arts but also held prestigious positions in academic circles, notably becoming an emeritus professor at the Estonian Academy of Arts in 1982. She actively participated in exhibitions from 1952 onward, demonstrating her works at significant events like the Łódź Textile Biennale in 1978. Her contributions to textile art were vital in placing Estonian textile art on the international stage.

Tomberg was a member of the Estonian Union of Textile Artists and an honorary member of the Estonian Artists' Union, highlighting her legacy in the nation’s cultural fabric. Her passing marks a moment of reflection on her impact on the field of textile art in Estonia, serving as an inspiration for future generations of artists.