anton michelsen (1908-1877)

Anton Michelsen was the founder of one of Denmark’s most important jewelry dynasties. He established his own workshop in 1841, and within a short time received his first commissions from the Danish Royal Family. Michelsen was entrusted with designing and producing new medals for the Orders of Dannebrog and the Elephant, as well as creating bespoke pieces for individual members of the Royal Household. In 1848, he was officially appointed Court Goldsmith and Maker of Orders, though he had effectively served in that role since the founding of his firm. His close relationship with the Danish court led to the creation of some of the most spectacular and distinctive silverware and enamelware of the 19th century, as well as much of the Royal Family’s everyday silver.

Among those who trained under Michelsen was Georg Jensen, who apprenticed with him in the 1890s. Over the years, many other leading figures in the Scandinavian design tradition were associated with the Michelsen workshop. From 1950 onward, the company began acknowledging its designers by stamping their signatures on each piece — a hallmark of authenticity and creative recognition. Notable designers of the mid and late 20th century included Karen Strand, Gertrud Engel, Eigil Jensen, Nanna & Jørgen Ditzel, Knud V. Andersen, and Jens Windfeld Hansen. In the 1980s the company merged with Georg Jensen.