Throughout Scandinavia, there's a long history of pride in craftsmanship using natural materials like wood. This is especially true of Denmark. This beautiful wingback chair is a great representation of the quality and craftsmanship of Danish master cabinetmakers and the immediately recognizable characteristics of Scandinavian design.

Danish modernist furniture designs, such as this wingback chair, became known for their sober character and undecorated elegance. Comfort and functionality were often the priority and as this chair exemplifies, ornaments were considered unnecessary. The welcoming, rounded shape of the voluminous arm- and backrest is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. The back is lightly bent and has stylish button tufting. The tufting stitches are festooned with seven buttons on the chair, and along with the fabric, the chair gives a natural, textured look. The frame has a distinct, sharply-curved, and high back support with the so-called wings in the top that give the impression that the chair is ready to embrace the sitter. Made of stained beech, the front legs are vertical and the back posts are splayed out below the seat. It is this detail of the construction that gives the chair a lighter and more elegant and stylish form.

The upholstery is one of a kind. The chair has recently been reupholstered in a premium wool and alpaca blend fabric that is of the highest quality. Due to the quality of the fiber, alpaca hide is extremely soft, even smoother than cashmere. This armchair is the perfect illustrations of how the pairing of Danish design, the work of a true cabinetmaker, and luxurious upholstery create exceptional pieces.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium alpaca wool blend fabric.

Dimensions:

32.28 in W x 33.62 in D x 42.12 in H; Seat height 16.92 in

82 cm W x 84.5 cm D x 107 cm H; Seat height 43 cm

About the Designer:

The practical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.

Works from the Danish Cabinet-Makers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects.  The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.  

Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities. 

The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognizable today. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.