This rare easy chair was designed by one of the most iconic Norwegian designers, Fredrik A. Kayser, for Vatne Lenestolfabrik Norway. Fredrik A. Kayser along with Afdal, Brattrud, Rastad & Relling is one of Norway’s most respected designers of the mid-century era.

This chair’s clean, geometric lines and solid teak frame and arms recall Danish mid-century furniture design, a clear source of inspiration for Kayser. This chair’s style pays homage to the Kaare Klint School, featuring clean, pure lines, use of the best materials and superb craftsmanship. The refined form is constituted by the slightly elevated seat and armrests, and the distinctive legs.

The Modernist look is enhanced by the upholstery in a grey premium fabric that compliments the beautiful colour of the teak wood. The soft fabric and removable seat cushion provide great comfort.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. 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:

27.95 in W x 31.10 in D x 29.52 in; Seat Height 13 in

71 cm W x 79 cm D x 75 cm H; Seat Height 33 cm

About the designer:

Norwegian industrial designer, Fredrik A. Kayser (1924-1968) was born in Bergen, and was introduced to the world of design at a young age through his family’s furniture business. Apprenticed as a carpenter, Kayser’s first chair design was put into production by Viken Møbelfabrikk when he was just fifteen years old, foreshadowing a bright future in design.

Kayser attended the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry—now known as the Oslo National Academy of the Arts—graduating in 1945. From 1945 to 1946, he worked for design firm Rastad & Relling in Oslo before opening his own factory in Bergen.

In 1956, Kayser founded his own design studio, and worked as a freelancer for various chair and furniture manufacturers, such as Viken Mobelfabrikk, where he designed the teak and rosewood “Hertug” sideboard. Kayser collaborated with Knut Sæter of Vatne Lenestolfabrik (armchair factory) in 1958, creating furniture that could be easily shipped and assembled. This new collection, shown at the export fair in Helsingør in 1958, was well-received both in Norway and internationally. The partnership, which lasted until Kayser’s death in 1968, was his most successful venture, some designs from which are still in production today.

Kayser passed away at the premature age of forty-four. Although his life was short, his accomplishments and designs have earned him a place among Norway’s most important mid-century designers. ~H.