Marianne Brandt was a German painter, sculptor, photographer, metalsmith, and designer who studied at the Bauhaus art school in Weimar and later became head of the Bauhaus Metal Workshop in Dessau in 1928.
Brandt’s innovative approach to metalwork and industrial design redefined functional aesthetics, blending geometric precision with everyday practicality. Her iconic designs, such as the MT 49 teapot, remain celebrated examples of Bauhaus modernism, characterised by their minimalist yet striking forms.
In 1929, she joined Ruppelwerk GmbH in Gotha as head of the design department for metal goods in coated steel panel. Beyond creating new designs, she played a crucial role in streamlining and modernizing the company’s product line. It was her declared goal to:
“Bring the confusing and uncharming product range of the Ruppelwerk in line with the Bauhaus philosophy.”
Her commitment to uniting craftsmanship with mass production principles shaped the future of industrial design. Despite working in a male-dominated field, Brandt’s persistence and creativity paved the way for women in design and metalwork. Even today, her legacy continues to inspire contemporary designers, proving that form and function can coexist harmoniously.
