Imagine clay taking shape here at Hjorths Fabrik. It transforms from raw material to art. Hjorths Fabrik is not just a museum. It is a living testament to Bornholm’s ceramic history. Founded in 1859 by Lauritz Adolph Hjorth, it remained in the family for generations.
Lauritz Hjorth’s journey began with an apprenticeship. He studied under master potter Edv. Sonne. Lauritz then traveled Europe. He gained experience in Berlin, Saxony and Switzerland. In 1859, he returned to Bornholm. He established his workshop. In 1862, he married Agnete Wolffsen. She was the daughter of a faience factory founder.
Initially, Hjorth crafted practical items. Water coolers, milk jugs, and tobacco containers were common. Demand grew beyond Bornholm. Hjorth’s products found markets across Denmark and Europe. By 1871, the factory expanded. It became a two-story building. Ten people were employed. In 1874, Hjorth purchased neighboring land. This allowed for further expansion. By 1875, 25 potters and painters worked here.
Hjorth’s creations reached far and wide. By the 1880s, they were sold in major department stores. Paris, London, Berlin, New York, and even Australia carried Hjorth pottery. The factory participated in World Exhibitions. It often won prizes.
Around 1900, Jugendstil influenced Hjorth’s work. Black-burned terracotta became popular. This style was inspired by sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen. His work was also manufactured at Hjorths Fabrik.
The factory also produced pharmacy jars. These began in 1927. Krone Pharmacy in Esbjerg commissioned acid-resistant jars. They needed to store pharmaceutical ingredients. These jars became widely used in Denmark.
During World War II, material shortages impacted production. Hjorth shifted to white-glazed earthenware. Erik Hjorth designed tea sets and bowls. These featured narrow grooves.
Lauritz Adolph Hjorth passed away in 1912. His sons Peter and Hans took over. Peter became the sole owner in 1931. Later, Adolph and Erik Hjorth inherited the factory in 1959. In 1983, Marie and Ulla Hjorth continued the family legacy.
In 1993, Hjorths Fabrik was sold to Bornholms Museum. It reopened in 1995 as a working museum. Today, you can witness the ceramic process. Four potters demonstrate their craft daily.
The tour includes ten stations. The ball mill, the sliphouse, and the material storage area are featured. You will also see the throwing workshop. The mold casting area and the glaze preparation area are highlights. Do not miss the old oven. There is also an electric and gas oven.
Hjorths Fabrik stands as a testament to Bornholm’s ceramic heritage. It embodies the enduring appeal of handcrafted art. Its legacy lives on through its ceramics.