Guardsman
A giant version of Kay Bojesen’s famous guardsman
This Guardsman is a gigantic copy of designer Kay Bojesen’s Danish Royal Guard figures. The original, 39” version, which represents the soldiers who protect the royal family, was created in 1940 for King Christian X’s 70th birthday. Production of the 10” toy Guardsman started in 1942. This guardsman, however, stands at a massive 63” tall!
This Guardsman was originally commissioned by the restaurant Old Denmark in New York City. After Old Denmark went out of business in 1994, the Danish Home for the Aged in New York bought and displayed it. After the home closed, the Guardsman and its accompanying house were given to the museum.
Kay Bojesen was a Danish designer known for his wooden figures of animals and furniture. He had trained as a silversmith under Georg Jensen. After he became a father, he started designing toys. These toys embody Danish Modern design, remaining recognizable while giving the animals an imaginative twist. Bojesen’s designs are now regarded as decorative pieces appreciated for their design.
Guardsman
Denmark
After 1940
Wood
Gift of The Danish Home for the Aged
2021.030.065
Kay Bojesen Guardsman
An older version of the Guardsman. Modern versions of the guard do not have a visible connection point on the arm. The Guardsman is one of Kay Bojesen’s most famous designs and versions of it are produced in silver, steel, and gold.
