DESIGN MUSEUM DIRECTOR RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS JAPANESE HONOUR

Anne-Louise Sommer, Director of Designmuseum Danmark, was awarded the prestigious Japanese decoration, the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, at a ceremony held at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence this week. The honour recognises her contribution to promoting Japanese culture in Denmark.

Japanese culture and design have been a central focus of the museum’s collection since its founding, and Japanese traditions have inspired Danish architects and designers for generations. Throughout her 15 years as Director, Anne-Louise Sommer has played a pivotal role in maintaining and strengthening the museum’s close ties with Japanese culture and design.

On 29 October, Japanese Ambassador Mikio Mori presented the prestigious decoration on behalf of the Emperor of Japan at a ceremony held at the Ambassador’s residence. In its official announcement of the award, the Japanese Embassy stated:

“Ms. Anne-Louise Sommer, Director of the Designmuseum Danmark will receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette in recognition of her contribution to introducing Japanese culture to Denmark and promoting mutual understanding between Japan and Denmark.”

Learning from Japan
In recent years, the museum has presented several exhibitions highlighting Japanese design and craftsmanship. In the permanent collection exhibition WONDER, visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of tsuba – Japanese sword guards. In 2026, the museum presented a major exhibition of modern Japanese poster art alongside a display of Japanese woodblock prints by the renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai, drawn from the museum’s collection. From 2015 to 2019, the exhibition Learning from Japan showcased Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints, ceramics and graphic works alongside Danish ceramics, architecture and furniture design inspired by Japan.

About the Order
The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, is a prestigious Japanese decoration awarded in the name of the Emperor of Japan. Established in 1875 by Emperor Meiji, the Order of the Rising Sun is Japan’s oldest national decoration. It is awarded to individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the state or society, including foreign nationals who have helped strengthen Japan’s international relations and promote awareness of Japanese culture.