Making of the Virchow Prize Trophy

This one-of-a-kind design provides a bridge between the past and future of global health. Its central feature is the glass specimen jar, curated from the Pathology Laboratory of the Charité – Universitätsmedizin in Berlin. Estimated to be more than 100 years old, similar specimen jars were utilized by Rudolf Virchow himself to preserve medical discoveries and contribute to the advancement of science and education.

Suspended within each Virchow Prize for Global Health trophy is a “specimen” that represents or symbolizes the longstanding work of the laureates and their unique contribution to global health. Within the trophy is a brass plate, laser etched with the name of the laureates and indicating the awarding year. The lid is additionally made of brass, etched with the image of Rudolf Virchow and sealed.

This original jar featuring the specimen, brass plate and lid will be showcased in the Historical Museum at the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin for students and the community to visit and learn from the achievements of the Virchow Prize for Global Health laureates – upholding Rudolf Virchow’s lifelong ambition to democratize and stimulate education.

The trophy awarded to the Virchow Prize for Global Health laureates will be a replica of this museum specimen; additionally utilizing an original glass jar curated from the Charité University Medicine.

The Virchow Prize for Global Health trophy design was developed under the direction and vision of artists Professor Axel Kufus, Noa Lerner and Bastian Thürich from Berlin University of the Arts and OH Studio. Its concept and design finalized in close cooperation with the Virchow Foundation for Global Health Founders and Directors.

The Virchow Foundation Team extends a special thank you for their vital contribution to Mrs Navena Widulin and Professor Thomas Schnalke.

OH Design: https://oh-studio.de
Berlin Museum of Medical History of the Charité: https://www.bmm-charite.de/en/index.html