Modern Art & Design presents Charlotte Perriand

Vivianna Torun Bülow-Hübe

Torun Bülow-Hübe was born into an artistic family in Malmö and grew up in a creative environment. Her early jewellery was characterised by simplicity and expressiveness, inspired by African forms and made from materials such as rattan, brass, and leather. In her home workshop in Stockholm, she crafted her first pieces, often while her daughter Pia played in Humlegården park. Her artistic talent was soon recognised by Estrid Ericson, who sold her jewellery at Svenskt Tenn, a turning point in Bülow-Hübe’s career.

After moving to Paris in 1948, Torun Bülow-Hübe found herself at the heart of the international art scene, forming friendships with icons like Braque, Brancusi, and Matisse. Here, she developed her style and achieved international recognition. Bülow-Hübe’s jewellery, often adorned with natural materials like beach stones from Biot, became symbols of her aesthetic—minimalistic but imbued with a powerful and sensual presence that drew widespread attention.

Her collaboration with Georg Jensen, beginning in 1968, cemented her place in design history. With her iconic mirror-faced watch, she became the first female jewellery designer at Georg Jensen, a breakthrough that further established her reputation. Bülow-Hübe’s philanthropic work in Indonesia during the 1970s also demonstrates her deep commitment to giving back to society.