Torben Hardenberg’s Magical Jewelry Tales

Through his decorative and lavish style, goldsmith Torben Hardenberg (1949–) has always stood in contrast to the minimalist, functionalist aesthetic that characterizes Scandinavian design. Since his first exhibition in 1978 at Designmuseum Danmark, Hardenberg has created whimsical pieces of jewelry—each one containing a story that both the wearer and the viewer are invited to continue.

Hardenberg draws inspiration for his creations from dreams of other worlds, rooted in the fairy tales of his childhood, where beauty and eeriness often intertwine in complex ways. These elements are deeply embedded in his artistic expression.

In addition to delving into wondrous imaginary realms and contrasting emotions, Hardenberg’s eclectic style is also influenced by historical periods and artistic traditions such as antiquity, the Renaissance, the Baroque, and Oriental art. His wide-ranging artistic interests shine through clearly and were recognized early on by Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II, who acquired some of Hardenberg’s distinctive pieces at the outset of his career. Since then, several of his works have been added to the Danish royal family’s jewelry collection.

A recurring motif in Torben Hardenberg’s oeuvre is the mask—an element inspired by the writer Karen Blixen, who was equally fascinated by the theme. Blixen viewed the world as a stage and was intrigued both by the masks we wear and the roles we play as human beings. She once remarked: “Not by your face, but by your mask shall I know you.”

Death also appears as a consistent theme in Hardenberg’s work, as it exists side by side with life and serves as a constant reminder to cherish it.

Torben Hardenberg’s unique works are highly sought after by collectors, and thanks to their exceptional quality and remarkable originality, they are now represented in museums and private collections across the globe. Like a true Renaissance artist, Hardenberg works with one constant: change in his stylistic expression. This ever-evolving approach is part of what gives his jewelry such broad appeal.

You can experience the featured jewelry pieces during our preview from April 5–8 at Nørgaardsvej 3, 2800 Kongens Lyngby. During the preview, we will also host inspiring talks with Torben Hardenberg himself, as well as stylist Anja Camilla Alajdi, who will share tips on how to style your jewelry.