Lot Essay
Danish-born Henning Koppel (1918-1981) designed novel work in the Scandinavian modern style, for which he received international acclaim. Koppel was trained as a sculptor and did not study as a silversmith. Following the Second World War, Koppel was hired by the Jensen firm to produce new jewelry designs, which were completely abstract in form.
His holloware designs for the firm were strikingly original in design and his work reflects an interest in contemporary sculpture. His famous series of pitchers have become icons of Scandinavian modern design, seeming to defy balance with their asymmetrical curves. Dubbed "African Girl" due to its tall handle stacked with "necklaces," this pitcher was the first in the series. It was designed in 1948 and awarded the gold medal at the 1951 Milan Triennale. Another pitcher of this design sold in these Rooms from the Rowler Collection, 19 January 2005, lot 415.
His holloware designs for the firm were strikingly original in design and his work reflects an interest in contemporary sculpture. His famous series of pitchers have become icons of Scandinavian modern design, seeming to defy balance with their asymmetrical curves. Dubbed "African Girl" due to its tall handle stacked with "necklaces," this pitcher was the first in the series. It was designed in 1948 and awarded the gold medal at the 1951 Milan Triennale. Another pitcher of this design sold in these Rooms from the Rowler Collection, 19 January 2005, lot 415.