Nanna Ditzel: Six Decades of Danish Design, from the Hanging Egg Chair to Trinidad

Nanna Ditzel, a Danish designer (1923–2005), enjoyed a prolific career spanning six decades in the realms of furniture, textiles, and jewellery. She was born in Copenhagen and began her journey as a cabinetmaker, ultimately graduating as a furniture designer in 1946. That same year, she wed Jørgen Ditzel and established a studio. In 1952, they created the 'Padded Cell,' a multi-level upholstered terrace. Ditzel made history in 1954 as the first female designer for Georg Jensen. She earned gold medals at the Milan Triennale in both 1957 and 1960, along with the Lunning Prize in 1956. Following Jørgen's passing in 1961, she crafted significant pieces like the 'Chill' lounge chair and 'Trisse' stool, receiving accolades such as Denmark's ID Prize in 1995 and being named an Honorary Royal Designer for Industry in 1996.