Torbjørn Lie-Jørgensen

Torbjørn Lie-Jørgensen (1900-1961)

Together with Ivar David-Andersen, Guttorm Gagnes and Harry Sørby, Torbjørn Lie-Jørgensen made important contributiones to the renewal of the production of the David-Andersen company in the end of the nineteen twenties, leading the way from classic functionalism into the Scandinavian Design era.

‘Fall’ brooch, 1959
Small version,
Silver gilt with enamel.

In addition to his work in silver and enemal, Lie-Jørgensen was a recognized painter. He was educated in goldsmithry at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) in Oslo, Norway, and in painting at the National Academy of Fine Art (NAFA), same place. In 1927 the newly educated young man was employed as a designer at David-Andersen where he was one of the leading designers until he left the company in 1939 to take on the position as Head of Department at the NCAD. In this he remained until his death in 1961, while continuing to work free lance for the D-A company.

The work of Torbjørn Lie-Jørgensen is characterised by rich and varied use of color frequently inspired by nature, we often see the painter and colorist excelling. Corpus works in fantastic organic form and modern enamel works with chased patterns in abstract design under colorful enamel became predominant traits. In 1954 he won a Gold Medal at the Milan Triennale for his works, and in 1955 another in Munich.

In the fifties serial production took on a leading role within jewelry production. As Norwegian enamelled jewelry became latest fashion in the fifties, Lie-Jørgensen like so many others designed necklaces consisting of identical enamelled links for serial production. Although the production was relatively simple, the effect was that of great decorative value. More known however he is for his highly personal and artistic jewelry collection often called “The Four Seasons”. In this collection from about 1960 Lie-Jørgensens talents as a painter become fully evident.