Pair of Beech and Papercord Armchairs by Frits Schlegel (Attr.), Denmark ca 1940s (sold)
















Pair of Beech and Papercord Armchairs by Frits Schlegel (Attr.), Denmark ca 1940s (sold)
Frits Schlegel was a defining Danish functionalist architect and designer, and while highly successful as an architect, from the 1930s onward he also designed a number of furniture lines with inspiration from the Bauhaus movement.
This pair of armchairs stand as evidence of why many Danish architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design. The precision of the structure and the cord weaving is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. Driven by function, Schlegel’s focus on practicality, structural stability, and a design in favour of these principles can be observed in the straight lines and absence of excess decoration. He saw possibilities in the aesthetics of modernist design and materials, becoming one of the first architects in Denmark to experiment with concrete in architecture; the use of the underrated material of paper cord is therefore no surprise. Noteworthy for its durability, paper cord is also beloved for its functional and aesthetic qualities. This material became an important material in the Danish Modern period of the 1940s and 1950s. The woven or basket form of seat of these chairs have a tight, visually pleasing pattern in great condition. This pair of armchairs have an equally arresting beech structure that shows great craftsmanship, and would make a lovely addition to any interior.
Extremely modest and confident at the same time is how this pair of chairs can be best described. The most renowned Danish designers of the era preferred to work with traditional and natural materials, but also liked to experiment with new techniques; the resulting models - such as this pair - are Danish Modern classics.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wood has minor scratches and discoloration.
Dimensions:
23.23 in W x 26.77 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 15.16 in; Seat depth 22.05 in; Arm height 20.47 in
59 cm W x 68 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 56 cm; Arm height 52 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this pair or “Radio” chairs showcase.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the neat upholstery of the seats, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these chairs as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of both Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This pair not only serves as a timeless work of art, but also showcases the elegance and innovation of the era.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success of their works.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
19.29 in W x 19.29 in D x 37.20 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 15.55 in
49 cm W x 49 cm D x 94.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm