Cicero by Blichfeldt – An agent for Piet Hein
Piet Hein
Piet Hein (1905–1996) was one of Denmark’s most influential designers, poets, and thinkers. Known for his unique blend of art, science, and design, he created timeless pieces that are today considered icons of Danish design history. His work combines functionality with elegance and is guided by the philosophy of the superellipse — a form that balances the circle and the rectangle, symbolising harmony and proportion.
Design Philosophy
Every Piet Hein design reflects a deep commitment to simplicity, clarity, and beauty. Whether in furniture, lighting, or accessories, his creations embody timeless Scandinavian modernism. The designs are based on clear geometric principles yet infused with a human warmth that makes them relevant across generations.
Collections and Products
Piet Hein’s legacy includes some of Denmark’s most celebrated design classics, which continue to be produced today:
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Superellipse® Tables: Iconic dining and conference tables in a wide variety of sizes and finishes.
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Bar Stools & Chairs: Minimalist seating that balances comfort and elegance.
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Lighting: Sculptural lamps that combine functional illumination with graceful design.
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Design Objects: Timeless accessories, from candleholders to sculptures, that bring Danish design into daily life.
Why Piet Hein Matters
More than just furniture or objects, Piet Hein’s designs embody a philosophy of living that values proportion, logic, and timeless quality. His pieces remain as modern today as when they were first introduced, making them strong statements for both private homes and professional spaces.
Piet Hein – A Multi-thinker and Universalist
Piet Hein was not only a designer but also a poet, mathematician, and philosopher. He bridged the gap between the arts and sciences, embodying a Renaissance-like spirit for the modern world. Always in search of harmony, his creative output reflects both intellectual depth and practical elegance.
Grooks – Harmony in Words
He gained wide recognition in the 1940s for his Grooks — short, witty poems published under the pseudonym Kumbel Kumbell. These poems combined humour with insight and were embraced across Denmark and beyond. Over twenty collections were published, translated into multiple languages, and read by millions. The Grooks remain a beloved contribution to Danish literary culture.
The Superellipse – Harmony in Form
At the same time, Piet Hein explored mathematics and geometry. His most famous creation, the Superellipse, offered a new way to balance circles and rectangles in architecture and design. First applied in Stockholm’s Sergels Torg, it later became the foundation for the Superellipse Table and inspired further designs such as the Superegg. This ability to transform abstract mathematics into tangible design remains one of his greatest achievements.
Design Legacy and Recognition
His portfolio extended to furniture, lighting, and objects such as the elegant Sinus Lamp, all exemplifying his principle that “art is a solution to problems not clearly defined until solved.” Over his lifetime, Piet Hein received numerous awards in Denmark and internationally, cementing his reputation as one of the most important Danes of the 20th century — mentioned alongside figures like Niels Bohr and Karen Blixen.
Lasting Influence
Through his friendships with leading thinkers like Einstein and Chaplin, his involvement in cultural and intellectual organisations, and his unwavering search for harmony, Piet Hein created a body of work that continues to inspire. His designs and writings live on as timeless contributions to both Scandinavian modernism and global cultural history.
