LEVEN Hugo

Hugo Leven studied at the School of Applied Arts in Düsseldorf before continuing his studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in the same city. He also worked in the studio of his father, Louis Leven, where he developed his artistic skills while maintaining fruitful relationships with French artists who strongly influenced him. Quickly recognized in the artistic community, he was hired by Engelbert Kayser as his first employee in his studio. From 1895 to 1904, Leven designed numerous models for Kayserzinn, his creations leaving a lasting mark on Art Nouveau pewter foundry. He also collaborated with renowned companies, such as Kreuter in Hanau, Koch & Bergfeld, and WMF, contributing to the production of metal, silver and stoneware.

Between 1904 and 1909 he settled in Bremen, where his works were exhibited at the Third German Exhibition of Arts and Crafts in Dresden in 1906, and he participated in various world exhibitions.

From 1909 to 1933 Leven taught at the drawing academy of the Technical School of the Precious Metal Industry in Hanau, where he became director. His students included renowned artists such as Wilhelm Wagenfeld, Christian Dell and Herbert Zeitner. However, he lost his position in 1933. After World War II, he played a key role in rebuilding the academy, which resumed operations in 1947.

Leven’s style is characterized by ornamental and naturalistic depictions of plants and animals, demonstrating his ability to combine aesthetics with sensitivity to nature.