Rounded Three-Seater Sofa by Danish Cabinetmaker, Denmark ca 1950s (sold)
Rounded Three-Seater Sofa by Danish Cabinetmaker, Denmark ca 1950s (sold)
This sumptuous curved sofa features the recognisable touch of Danish Modernism: exquisite materials, craftsmanship, and an elegantly curved shape, because of which this type of sofa is often referred to as the “banana” or “boomerang” style.
Curved sofas are in general considered statement pieces, for reasons that are eminently present in this three-seater sofa: a generous rounded seat and back that recalls the serpentine shape of Vladimir Kagan’s sofas, materials of the highest quality, and of course the craftsmanship of the Danish cabinetmaker. Aesthetically this sofa is more playful and inviting than many of its predecessors, thanks to its rounded edges and lines. With its curvy shape, this sofa is perfect to break the rigour of any space, keeping the elegant appearance, which is elevated by the premium bouclé upholstery and its gentle, light colour. The beech legs have a similarly beautiful colour and grain, injecting the organic wood material to the design. While a sofa with a rounded shape is not ground-breaking, it has typically been reserved for people who can afford to choose an artistic style over a practical one. That is, until Scandinavian mid-century cabinetmakers and designers united these styles, resulting in gorgeous pieces like this sofa.
The visual appearance of this sofa echoes Danish design and directs the eyes to the voluptuous body, that is the result of the exquisite craftsmanship. Many of the well-known Danish architects of the era felt the urge to try their hand at three-seater sofas, adhering to the period’s streamlined modernism. In combination with the unadorned styles of mid-century design, this sofa brings together the best attributes of the era. The four short, conical beech legs add an organic feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the sofa. This sofa’s sleek, curvilinear shape pairs incredibly well with the bouclé material it has been upholstered in.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé fabric.
Dimensions:
72.83 in W x 39.76 in D x 32.28 in H; Seat height 18.11 in
185 cm W x 101 cm D x 82 cm H; Seat height 46 cm
About the Designer:
This Danish-made sofa reflects the core traditions and ideals of Danish design, while recalling the shapes of the Art Deco movement. What both movements valued highly is the highest level of craftsmanship and attention to details.
Mid-century pieces such as this sofa were of great design, using fantastic wood like teak or beech. The mid-century was the heyday of the production by master craftsmen. Mid-century Danish design is world-famous for the partnership between designer and manufacturer, resulting in ground-breaking creations. The Danish design idiom was centred on warm woods, quality fabrics and gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being, a defining characteristic of Danish culture. The “Great Danes” believed furniture should be shorn of aesthetic detail and be an amalgam of form and function.
A master cabinet-maker is not a carpenter, as this was a rare breed of craftsman who had to be recognised by the Danish government after several years of toiling at his craft, as well as having to ace gruelling design competitions before becoming a master cabinet-maker. Since Denmark was a special instance of tempered industrialization, it managed to preserve sound traditions and continue to safeguard values of craftsmanship, materiality and usability.
Today, Danish furniture is sought after by collectors for classic looks, storied designs and solid quality, works that are truly soulful and timeless. ~H.