Knud Kyhn for Royal Copenhagen

In the hope of attracting judges and critics at the 1925 Paris Exposition, Royal Copenhagen made two important changes: they shifted their focus to stoneware sculptures, and, in a move that would reposition the factory for a new level of fame and international acclaim, hired a pair of renowned sculptors: Jais Nielsen (in 1921), and Knud Kyhn (in 1923 after four years with Bing & Grøndahl).

Unlike Nielsen, who created works depicting human figures, sometimes monumental and often inspired by religious themes, Kyhn drew most of his inspiration from the animal world—a passion dating back to childhood explorations of Danish wildlife. At the Copenhagen Zoo, located near the factory in Frederiksberg Gardens, he filled sketchbooks with studies of apes, bears, elephants, and other creatures. From these quick drawings, he developed sculptures that captured both the humor and struggles of animal life.

Many of Kyhn’s finest works were created at Royal Copenhagen between 1923 and 1935 and indeed, contributed significantly to the manufactory’s success at the 1925 Paris Exposition. In fact, animal figures had contributed to the reputation of Royal Copenhagen since the 18th century, but Kyhn’s distinctive use of a Sung flamed glaze—derived from Chinese Song dynasty traditions—brought a new dimension to this legacy. Often enriched with iron or cobalt, this highly fluid glaze emphasized the sculptural details after firing. His animal figures were executed in both stoneware and porcelain. 

Kyhn remained at Royal Copenhagen until his passing in 1969.