This rare low back rocking chair is generally attributed to the Danish master of characteristic, baroque-like Danish modernist design, Henning Kjærnulf. This rocking chair mixes the aesthetic traditions of the baroque era with streamlined mid-century modernism with a result that is timeless.

While they play a prominent role in both architecture and pop culture, rocking chairs solidified their place in Scandinavian design history as well. As this model proves, functionality can manifest in many forms, but in Danish design, it is always accompanied by great material choices, high quality craftsmanship and aesthetic quality. The design features several decorative features, including the carved back, arms and legs, and even the chair’s apron. The frame is carved from oak into these intricate shapes and forms with great precision. Kjærnulf was a highly skilled architect and designer with considerable technical expertise, and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations and style. The style and shape of the frame recalls 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 rocking chair has a visually arresting and individual aesthetic. The upholstered seat is an elegant touch that adds to the warm, stylish impression.

The details, such as the impeccable joinery and woodworking reveal the high quality craftsmanship of the Danish manufacturer, EG Kvalitetsmøbel (also known as EG Møbler).

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small scratches and marks on the wood. The chair’s seat has 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:

24.8 in W x 26.57 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 22.04 in

63 cm W x 67.5 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Arm height 56 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.