Carl Auböck – a Viennoise heritage
CARL AUBÖCK
Carl Auböck is one name for four different people through out four generations. The family workshop started pre-war in Vienna and continues to present day. Founded in 1900 by the first Auböck then reformed in 1926 by Carl Auböck II after he returned from his studies at the Weimar Bauhaus and took over the metalsmith business of his father. During his time at the Bauhaus, Auböck II met Swiss painter and colour theorist Johannes Itten then later went on to become a prominent figure in 20th-century Austrian painting.
At the time the workshop made small animal statues that were popular collectibles in Austria known as “Wiener Bronzen”. Carl II introduced materials like brass, cane, leather and wood to the Auböck catalogue and transformed its signature objets of art into useful, contemporary household accessories. Objects such as bookends, paperweights, wine stoppers and watering cans, elevated to the status of art.
In 1950’s Carl III began working with his father. After studying in MIT and travelling around the world, he met a rank of influential designers such as Walter Gropius, Herbert Bayer, and Charles and Ray Eames. It was through Carl’s III input that the Werkstätte Carl Auböck achieved international status. They collaborated with brands such as Hermès, Pierre Cardin and Tiffany & Co. Carl III style was different from his father’s. His designs had a more relaxed look and a cool style, which was something he admired from American design. The Auböck style and DNA remained through generations and created one sole vision though the years.
Now a days the Werkstätte Carl Auböck continues to produce a number of his classic designs from it’s original Viennese townhouse and is operated by the fourth generation of the Auböck family. It continues to work with Viennese artisans, weavers, and leathersmiths to achieve the quality and uniqueness the workshop is known for. Material sourcing and sustainability has limited which objects remain in production
Carl Auböck's distinguished pieces are not only favourites when it comes to the Christmas gifting time –the classic and elegant designs are a favourite among collectors all over the world.