This unique armchair is a great representation of the quality and craftsmanship of Danish master cabinetmakers and the immediately recognizable characteristics of Scandinavian design. Particularly visible here is Danish designers’ predilection for curvilinear shapes and cosy functionality.

The warm stained beech and the organic, sinuous curves of this chair recall the bending of the human body. People continue to sit and in the familiar act of sitting, are drawn not only to what looks comfortable but also to what looks more organic. The welcoming, rounded shape of the arm- and backrest is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. With just the stylish coloured button tufting as decoration, the focus is on the round, flowing lines of the body. The outstanding visual characteristic of this chair is the way in which the back and arms are formed from one piece, embracing the seat and the sitter with it. This creative and distinctive element praises the cabinetmaker. The short, tapered legs are thicker in the front and splayed in the back to help maintain stability, while also creating balance between straight and curved lines. Furthermore, the stained beech beautifully contrasts the light and textural bouclé upholstery. The Danish design idiom here, is manifested through these qualities that engender contentment and well-being, a defining characteristic of the country’s culture.

From the frame to the upholstery, this armchair guarantees quality and longevity. Although these virtues are important, design never fell short for Danish cabinetmakers. In the case of this chair, the beech legs and round profile stand out even under the luxurious fabric. The voluptuous shape and elongated seat provide great comfort in a true Danish mid-century manner.

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SOLD

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Condition:

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

Dimensions:

33.46 in W x 36.22 in D x 36.22 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Arm height 24.02 in

85 cm W x 92 cm D x 92 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Arm height 61 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.