Erna Zarges-Dürr (1907-2002) was a German silversmith who had a professional career in Pforzheim, Leipzig, Berlin, and Stuttgart.
Biography
Between 1924 and 1927, she trained at Bruckmann und Söhne in Heilbronn, becoming the first woman in the silversmiths’ department. From 1927, she studied at the Kunstgewerbeschule (School of Design and Crafts) in Pforzheim under Theodor Wende and other instructors.
Between 1931 and 1933, she worked in the workshops of Ernst Treusch in Leipzig and H. Wilm in Berlin. In 1933, she established her workshop in Heilbronn. From 1936 to 1939, she relocated to Stuttgart. Her work showcased meticulously crafted proportions with original and modern ornamentation.
Recognition
Erna Zarges-Dürr received numerous awards, including a gold medal for her silver wine jug exhibited at the 1937 Paris “Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne.” Her work was featured in international exhibitions.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing.
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