Designed by Henning Kjærnulf, this model is a version of the so-called “kurulstol” or kurul chair. The inspiration for this model is an ancient type of folding chair, originally a folding stool with straight or curved legs. Among the Romans, in addition to being an ordinary utility chair, it was symbolically linked to officials, often within the judiciary.

The design of this pair features a distinctive silhouette that is evocative of Ancient Roman stools and their later reinterpretations by Renaissance and Regency-era furniture makers. Danish designer, Henning Kjærnulf made the historic silhouette his own with a quarter-sawn white oak construction, simple pared-down lines, and hand-sculpted details. The bodies are composed of two slats of wood of equal length on the sides, fastened together in a saltire formation (resembling the letter X) which are extended in the back to form the armrests and the backs as well. The result is a statement look that can easily adapt to a variety of décor styles - from traditional to modern. The upholstered seats and backrests give the historic look a modern edge and elegance. The light bouclé fabric accentuates the blonde oak and the curves sculpted from it. Kjærnulf is among the exalted few designers to possess a voice so singular and a body of work so prolific as to be credited with the invention of an entire design style. Kjærnulf's iconic "Danish Brutalist" furniture combines elements from the Arts & Crafts, Rococo, and Jacobean Movements with Modernist sculptural details and a Scandinavian palette of natural blonde woods to create a look that is both entirely unique and instantly recognizable.

While the kurulstol is a historic classic originating from ancient Rome, thanks to Kjærnulf, Scandinavian modernism remains at the core of the design. The designer’s models are easy to spot in a crowd thanks to his originality, making his pieces like these chairs unique accent pieces.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

24.4 in W x 24.8 in D x 36.22 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Arm height 25.98 in

62 cm W x 63 cm D x 92 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Arm height 66 cm

About the designer:

Danish mid-century designer and architect, Henning Kjaernulf is somewhat of a mystery. A lot more is known about his designs than Kjaernulf himself. His wooden designs, crafted to perfection, speak for themselves. Kjaernulf mainly designed for the Danish manufacturers EG Kvalitetsmøbel, Nyrup Møbelfabrik, and Vejle Stole Møbelfabrik. The latter produced the designer’s well-known teak extending dining table design. The historic archives of the Danish municipality, Stenlille, reveal the history of Nyrup Møbelfabrik, mentioning Kjaernulf’s architectural designs for the company’s factory, referring to him as an architect based in Odense, Denmark.

Kjaernulf’s works reveal quality craftsmanship throughout, featuring clean Danish modern era lines with sculpted edges and shapes. The unique shapes, like his razorblade chair backrests, distinguish the designer from other Danish mid-century designers.

In light of how sought after his dining sets and lounge chairs are, it remains a mystery why so little is known about the designer. The curious background of Kjaernulf if anything, adds more charm to his pieces. ~H.