Henning Kjærnulf Oak Dining Chairs for Nyrup Møbelfabrik, Denmark 1960s (sold)
Henning Kjærnulf Oak Dining Chairs for Nyrup Møbelfabrik, Denmark 1960s (sold)
This impressive pair of mid-century dining chairs is representative of the fundamental axioms of Scandinavian design that revolve around quality and functionality and pairs it with a distinctive design.
These chairs belong to Kjærnulf’s so-called “razorblade” designs as they have the characteristic backrests with a shape that is similar to its namesake, a razorblade. Each chair is made of solid oak with a beautiful grain and colour. The style and shape of the frames recall an almost Baroque design, with a strong angular structure featuring straight as well as sculpted curved edges. The design combines this with the organicity of traditional Scandinavian style, and as a result, this set has a visually arresting and individual aesthetic. The stand-out visual appeal is provided by the slender backrests that have the famous razorblade-shape with additional sculpted parts on the top and bottom. The peculiar shapes continue in the curved, wide armrests, ribbed lower seat and the carved front legs that are connected to the back legs with straight stretchers. This latter element shows that while the chairs’ carved and sculpted elements were designed as a form of ornamentation, functionality and structural stability were of equal importance.
The details, such as the impeccable joinery and woodworking reveal the high quality craftsmanship of the Danish manufacturer, Nyrup Møbelfabrik. The chairs feature seats upholstered in a light fabric that complement the beautiful oak’s appealing, warm colour. Furthermore, thanks to their intricate design, these chairs are a perfect match for an understated dining table to create visual interest as accent chairs.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some discolouration and small marks on the wood. The chairs have been reupholstered recently 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:
26.18 in w X 23.81 in D x 37.99 in H; Seat Height 17.32 in
66.5 cm W x 60.5 cm D x 96.5 cm H; Seat Height 44 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.