Born in 1931 in a small town of Braband in Denmark, Hans Bølling attended an Art- and Handcraft School originally to become an advertising designer, however some years later he followed his passion for archi-tecture and graduated as an architect from the Royal Danish Art Academy. He designed a plethora of art works, ranging from dolls and furniture to villas, living complexes and town halls. Architect Jørn Utzon, probably the greatest Danish architect, created one of the most magnificent buildings of our time. The Sydney Opera House. Completed in 1973, it is one of the world's great icons and a symbol of Australia. The overall image which it has maintained reflects the brilliant design work that Jørn Utzon invested in the project. Although it has had a troubled history and has been subject to many changes it is now being updated in cooperation with Jørn himself and his son Jan Utzon.

The Duck came to life in the 1950s during the Bølling’s younger years, following the architect’s designs of flowers and weeds from the Botanical Garden. Here he decided to create small figures of ballerinas, trolls and musicians for his loved ones. Later, after winning an award he received a carpentry machine, which afforded him the opportunity to carve his beloved figures into wood. It is at this point during the Danish spring that the Duck, and later its offspring – the Duckling, were born.