Danish Cabinetmaker High-Back Chair with Exposed Stained Beech Arms, Denmark 1950s (sold)
Danish Cabinetmaker High-Back Chair with Exposed Stained Beech Arms, Denmark 1950s (sold)
Throughout Scandinavia, there is a long history of pride in craftsmanship using natural materials like wood. This is especially true for Denmark, and this beautiful high-back chair is a great representation of the quality and craftsmanship of Danish master cabinetmakers.
“Danish Modern” is a recognized term around the world standing for the characteristic style of Danish design created during the mid-20th century. Danish designers were often trained architects themselves, resulting in masterful structures as seen in this high-back chair’s frame. The gentle but crisp angles created from the stained beech are the main decorative elements, especially on the exposed arms that extend to form the front legs effortlessly. However, it is the partially upholstered arms that and robust back that set this model apart. The upholstery engages with the frame uniquely, accentuating the outlines and the beautiful stained beech as well. From the lightly curved “ears” to the lightly reclined back and the tapered legs, the design showcases the best characteristics of mid-century modern design. In service of the “form follows function” ideal of the era, the design is completed by a thick seat cushion that overreach the seat, thus aiding the ultimate lounging experience. The beech wood’s smoothness paired with the soft upholstery’s rich colour and texture creates an elegant, stylish aesthetic.
Looking at this chair, it becomes easy to understand the reason behind the major rise in popularity that mid-century modern has been experiencing for decades now. The natural and unfading beauty of the wooden frames and the quality fabrics help to enhance the genius of the structure. With an outstanding design and craftsmanship, this Danish cabinetmaker chair is sure to provide comfort and style in any interior.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
28.54 in W x 33.07 in D x 39.76 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 23.62 in
72.5 cm W x 84 cm D x 101 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 60 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.