Online Only

The Hoptimist

$24 Non-Member
$21.60 Member
Members save up to 20% & free shipping $35+
Online Only

The Hoptimist

$24 Non-Member
$21.60 Member
Members save up to 20% & free shipping $35+

Color:  Yellow

Item# 801505-801505 This item is currently not available
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Originally an ambassador of the late 1960s happy movement, this bobbing and smiling figurine now comes to you straight from Denmark with only one goal: bringing you cheer. The Hoptimist is designed by Danish cabinetmaker and counterculture icon Gustav Ehrenreich. Small enough to fit in your hand, the Hoptimist is a playful conversation piece for your desk or worktable.

  • Designer
    Gustav Ehrenreich
  • Size
    4h x 3"diam.
  • Material
    Plastic
  • Year of Design
    1960's
  • Origin
    China
  • If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return merchandise within 90 days for a refund in the form of original payment for contiguous U.S orders. Learn More.

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The Hoptimist - Yellow

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Why We Chose This
Even though Gustav Ehrenreich was an internationally recognized craftsman in the 1950s and mid-'60s, he found his true calling in life when he designed a springy toy in 1968 and launched Denmark's happy movement. The Hoptimist announced itself with the bright, primary colors that were popular during this time, and was cast from the same plastic as another classic Danish toy, Lego bricks. In 2011, the Hoptimist became the main sponsor of the Danish Hospital Clowns, donating money to the organization for each one sold. The Hoptimist illustrates the Museum's committment to creating a dialogue about design for children, as in MoMA's 2012 exhibition Century of the Child: Growing by Design 1900-2000.
Hans Gustav Ehrenreich
Hans Gustav Ehrenreich

Hans Gustav Ehrenreich (1917–1984) was Danish cabinetmaker and designer of delightful objects. At his workshop in Aarhusvej in Stilling, Denmark, he created hand-turned bowls and plates, inlaid with silver motifs, with no two designs the same. In the late 1960s, he crafted the first prototypes for the Hoptimist, named Bimble and Bumble. In the spirit of the time, the Hoptimist was characterized by bright colors and harmonious, round shapes.

Authenticity Guarantee

At MoMA Design Store, all of the designs we sell are curator-approved and authentic. We ensure the integrity of our products through research and by working closely with the designers. Our products embody the spirit of good design objects in MoMA's collection. Some of them are actual designs represented in the Museum's collection.