He studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and began his career as a sculptor before turning to industrial design. He worked for a number of companies, including the renowned Danish design firm Dansk International Designs, for whom he created many iconic pieces.
Jens Quistgaard was known for his functionalist, minimalist approach to design, which influenced many 20th-century designers. His creations were often characterized by the use of natural materials such as wood, ceramics and metal, and he was particularly known for his stainless steel cutlery.
Jens Quistgaard won numerous awards for his work, including the Gold Medal at the Milan Triennale in 1957. His work is exhibited in museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Museum of Art and Design in Copenhagen.