Wiwen Nilsson (1897 – 1974) was a Swedish Silver Designer born in Lund. He made a significant contribution to the world of art and design. His work was characterized by simplicity and elegance, incorporating wood, glass, and other non-traditional elements. His legacy lives on through his beautiful creations.
Education
He was trained in the workshop of his father Anders Nilsson. He studied at the Konigliche Preussische Zeichenakademie, Hanau (Germany), and in the Paris studio of Georg Jensen while at the Académie de la Grande Chaumiere and Académie Colarossi.
Biography
From 1923, Nilsson worked in his father’s workshop in Lund, assuming its management in 1928. In the 1920s and 1930s, he worked in a geometrical style, incorporating cylinders, hemispheres, and sharp angles into his large vessels. Under Nilsson’s leadership and that of Erik Fleming, Swedish silver acquired a character uniquely its own.
1937 Art Deco 85-carat rock crystal silver necklace by Wiwen Nilsson
This pendant is a true masterpiece of jewellery design. The combination of silver and rock crystal creates a stunning contrast that is both elegant and eye-catching. The pendant itself measures 6.7 cm in length, making it the perfect size to be worn as a statement piece without being too overpowering. The chain, which measures 59 cm in length, allows the pendant to be worn at the perfect height on any neckline.
Silver coffee set, 1945, by Wiwen Nilsson
Nilsson designed these in 1945 and it has three beautiful pieces. The silver coffee set with a height of 26.5 cm is a true masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. Nilsson’s silver coffee set is a stunning example of mid-century modern design. The three-piece set, crafted in 1945, features clean lines and a sleek silhouette that exudes sophistication. Standing 26.5 cm tall, the set is the perfect size for serving coffee or tea to guests. The attention to detail is evident in every design aspect, from the elegant spout on the coffee pot. Silver adds a touch of luxury and elegance.
Recognition/Exhibitions
He received a gold medal at the 1925 Paris ‘Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes,’ the 1955 Gregor Paulsson trophy, the 1956 Swedish Goldsmiths and Jewellers’ Guild gold medal, and the 1958 Prince Eugen Medal.
His work was shown at the 1939 ‘New York World’s Fair, the 1955 ‘H 55’ exhibition in Halsingborg, the 1954—57 USA ‘Design in Scandinavia travelling exhibition, and the 1958 ‘Formes Scandinaves’ at the Paris Musée des Arts Décoratifs.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The Design Encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL
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