Carlsberg Cap
Probably the best cap in the world
Caps like this one are still worn by coachmen of Carlsberg beer. Carlsberg stopped delivering beer by horse and carriage in the 1950s, but they still employ coachmen and use horses on some special occasions to keep the tradition alive. Carlsberg has been an important economic force in Denmark and is still very involved in culture and innovation through their foundations.
This cap was donated by Conrad Pedersen. His grandfather, Jens Pedersen, was the first distributor of Carlsberg on the Island of Bornholm. Jens Pedersen also supplied smoked fish to Copenhagen. Herring caught off the shore of Bornholm is considered the finest in Denmark.
Carlsberg became a purveyor to the Danish royal court in 1904. The title has been used to show quality of product. It was decided after the appointment of H.M. Frederik X that the title of “Purveyor to the Royal Court” will be phased out. The title will no longer be in use by any company after 2029.
Carlsberg Cap
Copenhagen, Denmark
Polyester, Nylon, Metal, Patent Leather
Gift of Conrad Pedersen
2003.077.001
Coachman, Photograph
This large-scale Polaroid depicts a Carlsberg coachman. Before 1950, he would have steered a horse-drawn carriage and delivered beer to shops or pubs. Now the coachmen are used at special events to keep the tradition alive. This piece was taken by the photographer Joyce Tenneson in 1990 as part of a series of portraits of different Danish citizens.
