Viktor Hammer, also known as Victor J. Hammer, was a highly influential figure in the business world, known for his philanthropic work and for establishing Hammer Galleries in New York City.
He was born on November 1, 1901, in New York and gained fame for his significant contributions to the art community and his dedication to various charitable causes.
This piece explores his early life, professional journey, and noteworthy accomplishments, shedding light on the extraordinary path of a prosperous entrepreneur and devoted art lover.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Viktor J. Hammer |
| Gender | Male |
| Date Of Birth | November 1, 1901 |
| Birth Place | New York, United States |
| Date Of Death | July 21, 1985 |
| Age On Death | 83 Years |
| Zodiac | Scorpio |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts (B.A. |
| University | Princeton University |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Father | Julius Hammer |
| Mother | Rose (née Lipshitz) Hammer |
| Siblings | Armand Hammer |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Barbara, Ireene Wicker (m. 1941–1985) |
| Children | Armand And Nancy Hammer Eilan |
| Profession | Businessman |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth | Not Known |
Viktor Hammer’s Early Life
Viktor J. Hammer came into this world on November 1, 1901, in the vibrant city of New York, New York, United States. As he was born on this date, his zodiac sign is Scorpio.
Scorpios are known for their determination, resourcefulness, and passion, which may have shaped Viktor J. Hammer’s successful endeavors as a businessman and philanthropist.
Viktor Hammer’s Education
Viktor Hammer furthered his education at Princeton University, achieving a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. Unfortunately, specific information about his field of study or additional educational accomplishments is not available i
Viktor Hammer’s Parents
Viktor Hammer’s parents belong to Ukrainian-Jewish heritage. Their names are Julius and Rose (née Lipshitz) Hammer.
His Father, Julius Jacob Hammer, Founded Communist Party
Julius Jacob Hammer (1874-1948) was a remarkable individual with a wide range of achievements.
Born on October 3, 1874, in Moscow, Russia, he went on to play significant roles as the founder of the Communist Party in New York and the creator of the Allied Drug and Chemical Company.
His impact extended into the business realm, where he acquired Occidental Petroleum Corp. and amassed great wealth, eventually becoming a billionaire.
On October 17, 1948, at the age of 74, Julius Jacob Hammer passed away in New York, USA, leaving behind a legacy of diverse accomplishments.
His Mother, Rose Hammer (née Lipshitz)
Rose Hammer (née Lipshitz) (1873 – 1963), a Russian immigrant to the United States, lived a remarkable life as a resilient and strong-willed woman.
She married Julius Hammer, a physician, and together they embraced the vibrant Jewish community in New York City.
Rose played a vital role in raising her family and supporting her husband’s pursuits, witnessing and contributing to the nation’s growth amidst the challenges immigrants faced in the early 20th century.
His Brother, Armand Hammer, Was A Bussiness Tycoon
Viktor Hammer had a brother named Armand Hammer. Armand Hammer (May 21, 1898 – December 10, 1990) was a renowned American business tycoon famous for associating with Occidental Petroleum.
Beyond his successful endeavors in the petroleum industry, he gained prominence as a distinguished art collector and philanthropist. Born in New York, he served as the leader of Occidental Petroleum from 1957 until his passing.
His close relationship with the Soviet Union earned him the moniker “Lenin’s chosen capitalist.” Armand Hammer’s legacy encompasses remarkable contributions to the business world and the art realm.
Viktor Hammer’s Professional Career
In collaboration with his brother Armand, Viktor Hammer engaged in various business ventures, notably co-founding Hammer Galleries in New York City in 1928. The gallery served as a means to funnel profits from the Soviet Union.
While British Intelligence suspected the gallery of having connections to Soviet Intelligence, the Hammer brothers maintained ties with Soviet authorities for diverse reasons, including famine relief and the acquisition of treasures from the Hermitage Museum.
Viktor oversaw acquisitions for Hammer Galleries, such as the renowned Romanov Treasures and Fabergé Eggs. According to Fabergé expert Geza von Habsburg, Viktor revealed that his brother received Fabergé hallmarking tools from Stalin’s trade commissar, Anastas Mikoyan, to sell both genuine and faked items.
Viktor Hammer’s Philanthropic Endeavors
Viktor Hammer’s philanthropic endeavors mirrored his commitment to positively impacting society. Alongside his success as a businessman and artist, he dedicated himself to supporting causes close to his heart.
His contributions to arts and education were particularly significant, with generous donations to art institutions and museums, nurturing creativity and cultural enrichment.
Moreover, he believed in the transformative power of education and generously supported scholarships and educational programs.
Viktor Hammer’s philanthropy also extended to various charitable causes, improving lives and inspiring others to follow his path of giving back to the community.
Viktor Hammer’s Marriage & Children
Viktor Hammer’s first marriage was to Barbara, a performer known for her gypsy romances. They welcomed a son named Armand in 1927 but faced undisclosed issues that led to their divorce in 1928.
In 1941, Viktor married again, this time to Ireene Wicker. Their enduring partnership lasted until Viktor’s passing in 1985. Throughout their marriage, Ireene provided crucial support for Viktor’s pursuits in the art world and philanthropy.
While details about their personal life are scarce, it is evident that Viktor’s wife played a significant role in his successful career. Together, they had a daughter named Nancy Hammer Eilan.
His Wife, Ireene Wicker, Was American Singer & Actress
Ireene Wicker, born Irene Seaton on November 24, 1905, in Quincy, Illinois, was an American singer and actress.
She gained fame as “The Singing Lady” through her beloved radio program, captivating young audiences in the 1930s and 1940s. She passed away on November 17, 1987, in West Palm Beach, Florida.
His Son, Armand Hammer
Armand Hammer, an American business tycoon and proprietor of Occidental Petroleum, was recognized for his association with the Soviet Union.
Besides his business pursuits, he was renowned as an art enthusiast and a generous philanthropist. Born in New York City in 1898, he held the reins of Occidental Petroleum from 1957 until his passing in Los Angeles in 1990.
Viktor Hammer Passed Away In 1985
On July 21, 1985, Viktor J. Hammer died in Lake Worth, Florida, United States. His departure marked the conclusion of a remarkable and influential career in the art industry.
Despite his physical absence, his legacy endures through his artistic creations, the renowned gallery he founded, and his philanthropic initiatives.
Viktor Hammer’s significant impact on the art world and his unwavering commitment to promoting art and culture are cherished and commemorated by countless admirers.
Viktor Hammer’s Net Worth
At the time of his passing on July 21, 1985, the exact net worth of Viktor J. Hammer remains undisclosed.
