Hans Hansen designed silver and jewellery, Denmark, mid 20th century

Hans Hansen (1884-1940) was a Danish silversmith and jewellery designer. He was born on May 20, 1884, in Kolding, Denmark and began his career as an apprentice to his father, a goldsmith, where he learned the skills and techniques of the trade. After completing his apprenticeship, he went on to study at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, where he honed his design sensibilities and gained a deeper understanding of artistry and craftsmanship.

He founded his own company in Kolding, Denmark in 1906. Initially, the company produced flatware, but when it became successful, they started producing jewellery. In 1931, Hans Hansen designed himself the first pieces of jewellery, and in 1932, his son Karl Gustav Hansen designed the first successful line of jewellery.

Throughout his career, Hans Hansen collaborated with several talented designers and craftsmen and as well as his son Karl Gustav Hansen they included more... Bent Gabrielsen, and Allan Scharff. Together, they created timeless and iconic pieces that garnered international acclaim and brought Danish design to the forefront of the global stage. Hans Hansen's jewellery is characterized by its simple, geometric shapes and its use of precious metals and stones. His designs were inspired by Art Deco and Modernism, and his work is considered to be some of the finest silver and jewellery produced in Denmark during the mid-20th century.

In the mid-20th century, Hans Hansen's designs received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Lunning Prize in 1951, which recognized outstanding Scandinavian design. His works were exhibited in renowned international exhibitions, including the Milan Triennials and the International Design Exhibition in Brussels.

Hans Hansen's legacy continued to thrive even after his passing in 1940. His workshop was passed down to his son, Karl Gustav Hansen, who carried on his father's traditions and further expanded the brand's reach. Today, Hans Hansen's original designs are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of Danish modernist jewellery and silverware. less...