Scandinavian design is a distinctive style that represents a design philosophy, guided by functionality, simplicity and clean lines. The maker of this lounge chair not only had a preference for its main characteristics and materials, but a deep respect as well. The design of this model is in favour of the user, maintaining the focus on authentic simplicity.

Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this lounge chair is a Danish delicacy, with a unique look. With its classic shape paired with modern design elements, this model combines the best design characteristics of the 1940s. The large, enveloping backrest dictates the shape of this chair, as it forms most of the structure, including the armrests. The curvature creates an inviting and open look, enhanced by the soft sheepskin upholstery. The spherical, so-called bun feet on the chair’s front legs are a pleasant touch. The warm brown colour of the stained beech nicely contrasts to the soft, light colour of the body, not to mention that wooden bun feet make a long-lasting, rock solid foundation for any chair. The chair’s back legs differ, they are straight, which is an eccentric detail that adds visual interest. Master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities, therefore this lounge chair provides support for the back and great sitting comfort.

Through decades of changes in styles and preferences, the various iterations of what has come to be called Danish Modern have managed to go on “speaking” to consumers, collectors, and design aficionados – and most importantly to users – in rapidly changing cultures. This early Danish mid-century lounge chair shows why. Without any tufting or festooning, the focus here is on the round, flowing lines of the body and its upholstery. The sheepskin used for the upholstery is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

 SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.

Dimensions:

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 model is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.