The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek was founded in 1897, standing as a primary testament to the cultural engagement of Carl Jacobsen. Born in Copenhagen in 1842, Jacobsen transformed the local brewery established by his father, J. C. Jacobsen, into an international corporate entity, balancing his dual roles as a shrewd entrepreneur and a dedicated patron of the arts.
Early Career and Expansion
After graduating from the Borgerdyd School in 1861, Jacobsen embarked on a four-year period of study abroad to observe leading European brewing practices. Upon his return, he initially worked within his father's business. However, internal conflicts led him to establish his own independent brewery in 1882. Originally titled the Valby Brewery, he renamed the enterprise Ny Carlsberg with his father's consent. Following his father's death, the management of the original firm fell to the Carlsberg Foundation, which had been created in 1876. In 1906, the two companies merged, and Jacobsen took control of the consolidated organization.
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Jacobsen integrated his business interests with his support for the arts. He frequently collaborated with architect Vilhelm Dahlerup, ensuring his industrial buildings, such as the Winding Chimney, reflected high aesthetic standards. Beyond private commissions, he influenced Copenhagen's public landscape by financing the restoration of multiple churches and public structures. His most recognizable legacy in the public sphere is the 1913 sculpture of The Little Mermaid. His commitment to classical art underpinned the development of the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, which continues to function as a significant center for antique collections in Denmark.
Professional Recognition and Personal Life
In 1874, Jacobsen married Ottilia Marie Stegmann, daughter of the merchant Lorents Konrad Carl Stegmann. The couple had nine children between 1875 and 1890. Throughout his career, Jacobsen received numerous state honors, including becoming a Knight of the Order of the Dannebrog in 1888 and receiving the Decoration of the Cross of Honour of the Dannebrog in 1891. He was appointed a commander of the order in 1897, a Knight Grand Officer in 1906, and was awarded the Grand Cross in 1912. He was also a member of the Académie des beaux-arts.
Fast facts
- Born: 1842, Copenhagen
- Died: 1914, Frederiksberg
- Spouse: Ottilia Marie Jacobsen
- Key Position: Chairperson of the executive board (1902-1914)
- Cultural Foundation: Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
- Notable Artwork Commissioned: The Little Mermaid (1913)
- Burial Site: Jesuskirken
Questions readers ask
What was the professional relationship between Carl Jacobsen and his father?
They were both brewers in Copenhagen, though they experienced internal conflicts that prompted Carl to open his own brewery, Ny Carlsberg, in 1882.
Where is Carl Jacobsen buried?
He is buried in the family mausoleum at Jesuskirken in Copenhagen.
Achievements
- Knight of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1888
- commander of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1897
- Knight Grand Officer of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1906
- Grand Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1912
