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Kähler Ceramics: A Legacy of Danish Art Pottery

 

Founded as a small workshop in 1839, Kähler Ceramics initially focused on producing cookware and stoves. The company's direction changed in 1880, when it began a new chapter dedicated to art pottery. Under the leadership of Herman A. Kähler—the founder's son—the studio had its international breakthrough at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1889, earning a reputation for quality craftsmanship that continues to this day.

 

Throughout the 20th century, the studio attracted a host of prominent artists who continually reflected the dominant design styles of their time, from Art Nouveau and Art Deco to Mid-Century Modernism. The family's enduring influence is seen in the "HAK" mark, which stands for Herman A. Kähler. Under the artistic direction of his grandson, Nils Kähler, in the mid-20th century, the studio became a leading force in Danish design.

 

The success of the studio was driven by the numerous artists who collaborated with them. Some of the many names who contributed to the company’s legacy include:

• Karl Hansen Reistrup

• Bindesbøll

• L.A. Ring

• P.S. Krøyer

• H. A. Brendekilde

• Svend Hammershøj

• Cecilie Manz

• Louise Hindsgavl

• Ursula Munch-Petersen

• Jens Thirslund

• Herman J. Kähler

• Niels Kähler

• Helge Jensen

• Astrid Tjalk

• Gete Petersen