Eigil Jensen
1917 - 2002
Eigil Jensen was born in the Danish town of Aalborg in 1917. He liked drawing and was originally drawn towards graphic design, but was unable to find an apprenticeship. Instead, a goldsmith in Aalborg was looking for an apprentice who could draw. He soon showed an aptitude for his work and finished his apprenticeship in 1938. Jensen then sought new challenges and was employed by Hans Hansen in Kolding, Hans Hansen silversmithy had an international reputation by this time. After five years at Hans Hansen Jensen sent his CV to A. Michelsen in Copenhagen, where he worked for the next forty years until his retirement in 1985. After just four years he became the foreman for the goldsmith workshop, he simultaneously studied and became a qualified gemologist and diamond expert. At Michelsen Eigil Jensen fulfilled many different design assignments, including jewelry, Christmas spoons, and hollowware. He also executed many commission orders; mayoral chains, church silver and silverware for Crown Prince Margrethe and Prince Henrik's as well as Princess Benedikte and Prince Richard's wedding. By 1973 Jensen had become Head of Production at A. Michelsen, a position he held until his retirement.