Designed by Henning Kjaernulf, these armchairs combine a strong angular structure with a rounded and curved design that gives a feeling of strength and durability. The oak frames are carved and sculpted in an unmistakeable way, showing the skills of both the designer and the manufacturer.

This pair of armchairs is spectacular from every angle starting from the carved legs in the front that are elongated to form the arms as well. The list of decoration continues with the scalloped sides of the seats and in the front of the chairs. The wide, flat armrests are also carved to match the patterns of the structure. The solid, open oak frames are also functional besides aesthetically appealing; the seats are elongated and gently raised towards the front legs to provide sitting comfort. This feature also gives the chairs an open and welcoming feeling. While the front legs supporting the armrests are carved in a way that resembles the Baroque style, Scandinavian modernism remains at the core of the design. The rich sheepskin melts the carved and straight lines together, emphasizing the oak’s beautiful pattern and smoothness. Kjærnulf’s designs are easy to spot in a crowd thanks to this quality, making his pieces unique.

These models were manufactured by EG Kvalitetsmobel in Denmark during the 1960s. While there are numerous forms of ornamentation on these armchairs, yet the design stays coherent. The material and visual quality is maintained throughout the chairs, making them truly timeless. If there is a single common denominator for Danish Modern, it is the quality of the execution, the woodwork and the upholstery. The fact that so much of the original furniture has survived to the present-day bears testimony to the fact that Danish Modern was second to none in craftsmanship.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor marks and discolouration on the wood. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.

Dimensions:

28.34 in W x 26.77 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 14.56 in

72 cm W x 68 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 37 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 Kvalitetsmobel, 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.