Danish Cabinetmaker Wingback Chair with Stained Wood Legs, Denmark ca 1950s (sold)
Danish Cabinetmaker Wingback Chair with Stained Wood Legs, Denmark ca 1950s (sold)
This unique 1940s winged easy chair is a great representation of the quality and craftsmanship of Danish master cabinetmakers, characterized by the best qualities of mid-century design. From the restrained aesthetic to the elegant pairing of materials, this wingback chair is a stylish delight from the era.
The welcoming, rounded shape of the voluminous arm- and backrest is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. The back is lightly bent and hugs the sitter with the distinctive “wings” on the top. The arms have similar curves to the back with a pronounced curved that flows effortlessly into the back. True to Danish ideals, the designer rejected the pseudo-historical use of ornamentation, instead favouring a pared-down and uncluttered look. Accordingly, the wool blend upholstery’s quality and textural look also serves a decorative role. The fabric highlights the frame’s rounded edges with a nod to comfort and simple artistry from the north. Danish design allowed aesthetics to flow more naturally, which is clearly visible in the lines of this chair, from its embracing back to its voluptuous armrests. The slender stained wood legs prevent the chair from looking heavy, while their warm brown colour nicely contrasts the soft, light colour of the body.
This wingback chair is an elegant and comfortable evidence of the mastery and artistry of Danish cabinetmakers who defined mid-20th century modern seating. This model is of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lounge chair has been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
33.07 in W x 37 in D x 37.4 in H; Seat height 17.91 in; Arm height 24.01 in
84 cm W x 94 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 45.5 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.