Christian Dell

Themenführung »Kugel, Kreis, Quadrat – Christian Dell am Bauhaus«

Precision craftsmanship, functional clarity, and a strong interest in new materials define the work of Christian Dell (1893–1974).

The exhibition at sam – Stadtmuseum am Markt presents the full spectrum of Dell’s work: from early silver objects and experimental plastic pieces to refined, mass-produced lighting designs, including today’s design classics from the Kaiser Idell series. After completing his solid training as a silversmith in Hanau, Dell established himself as a teacher at the Bauhaus in Weimar (1922–1925) and at the art school in Frankfurt am Main (1926–1933), today’s Städelschule. In doing so, he influenced a generation of artists and designers, including Marianne Brandt and Wilhelm Wagenfeld.

The exhibition traces how Dell and his circle made the transition from unique artisanal objects to sophisticated serial production — a key contribution to the development of modern design, making high-quality design accessible to a wider audience. At the same time, it builds a bridge to Wiesbaden, where Dell spent the second half of his life. In this way, the exhibition connects international design history with a chapter of local history and invites visitors to rediscover Christian Dell.

Additional dates:

Thursday, September 3, 2026, 6:00 PM
“Christian Dell and Silver Objects of the 1920s”

Thursday, October 8, 2026, 6:00 PM
“Idea Dell – Christian Dell’s Lighting Designs”

Duration: approx. 1 hour each | Admission + €4 | No registration required | Limited number of participants

The Foundation of the Wiesbaden City Museum preserves, presents and communicates the heritage of Wiesbaden and its surrounding area, especially the region of the former Duchy of Nassau. Its goal is to reach all segments of the population and foster a shared identity.