SCHMUCK münchen – The original since 1959

In 1959, the special exhibition SCHMUCK was shown for the first time at the Handwerksmesse. It stood for the dream of leading Germany out of the political isolation of its dark past. Herbert Hofmann, the initiator, wanted to express the message that jewellery and its design are about people as such, that this theme speaks a global language. International artists were therefore invited to take part in SCHMUCK from the very beginning.

The supposedly apolitical bridge brought the Handwerksmesse and Bavarian craftsmanship back into the international community. The special show thus became an important meeting place for all those interested in jewellery.

SCHMUCK today

The goldsmiths’ current examination of the issues of our time makes this exhibition a special experience every year. We discover unseen ideas alongside the results of continuous research work at a high level.

In the competition for participation, we receive over 700 international applications every year, which are viewed and selected by changing curators. In this way, the exhibition always develops its own character and is a benchmark for our jewellery culture.

Awards and prizes

Herbert-Hofmann-Prize

The art historian Dr. Herbert Hofmann initiated the first jewellery show in 1959. The prize is awarded by the Gesellschaft für Handwerksmessen to three jewellery makers whose work is exemplary due to the novelty of the jewellery idea, originality of the concept, outstanding craftsmanship, wearability and decorative effect.

The works will be honoured the following year with images and text in the SCHMUCK catalogue.

Bavarian State Prize

All exhibitors at the Internationale Handwerksmesse have been able to apply for the Bavarian State Prize since 1952. The Bavarian State Prize is awarded with 5,000 euros, a gold medal and a certificate.

More information on the Bavarian State Prize can be found on the website of the Association of Bavarian Chambers of Crafts.