Danish Modern Sofa with Leather Upholstery and Oak Frame, Denmark 1940s


















Danish Modern Sofa with Leather Upholstery and Oak Frame, Denmark 1940s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
It was in Denmark that Modernism reigned between the 1920s and 1960s and produced some of the most iconic pieces of furniture to this day. The Danish modernist movement was shaped by two influences. The first was the German Bauhaus; from it, Danish Modernism adopted the trend towards functionalism and this is why one of the hallmarks of Danish furniture is its simplicity. The second was an even earlier influence found in the Funkis style, an aesthetic based on softer lines and rounded shapes.
Choosing to abandon ornamentation to benefit the form, the maker of this sofa maintained the beauty and warmth inherent in traditional Danish cabinetmaking. This sofa has the characteristic “open armrest” design that showcases the high level craftsmanship and the beautiful oak structure. While the design of the sofa’s body is uncomplicated, with a straight back and clean lines, the details and pairing of materials create visual interest and charm. One visually intriguing part of the structure is the way in which the arms “hug” the seat. While another striking detail is the use of the metal studs outlining the edges of the piece. The red colour of the leather upholstery compliments the tone of the oak beautifully and highlights the design movement’s characteristic use of natural materials. Danish cabinetmaker pieces like this are timeless thanks to their expert craftsmanship, their visual and material quality. In Danish design, pieces are made to last rather than to be routinely replaced, as the home is meant to enhance an unburdened lifestyle. Living well is in itself a form of art, and the furnishings of the home are supposed to complement it. This piece serves its purpose in an elegant manner, bringing the beauty of mid-century Danish design to modern interiors.
While Danish creators had many principles, above all, they believed that design could certainly be used to improve people's lives. Elegant and functional, this sofa model is certain to do exactly that.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and marks. This sofa comes with its original upholstery or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
57.08 in W x 24.80 in D x 31.29 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 20.86 in; Arm height 23.81 in
145 cm W x 63 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 60.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Illum Wikkelsø was a recognisable figure of Danish seating design in the post-war decades, known for creating furniture that combined sculptural silhouettes with a strong emphasis on comfort. Working throughout the 1950s and 1960s with manufacturers such as Søren Willadsen, Wikkelsø developed lounge chairs and sofas that softened the stricter geometry of earlier modernism through curved lines. His designs often relied on exposed wood, generous upholstery, and carefully balanced proportions, allowing seating to feel visually substantial without becoming heavy.
Model “110” reflects this approach through its dramatic winged silhouette and restrained material palette. The chair is upholstered in black leather that wraps continuously around the high back, seat, and armrests, emphasizing the sculptural quality of the form. The backrest rises upward into pronounced side panels that connect the wings to the armrests. The sides curve gently forward, creating a protective and enveloping shape around the sitter. These extended sides visually frame the head and shoulders. The leather surface contributes to the overall character of the piece: its subtle texture catches light differently across the curved sections, giving depth to the large upholstered planes. In contrast to the dark upholstery, the chair rests on a solid wooden base with angled legs that introduce warmth and visual lightness. The exposed wood creates a clear separation between the upholstered body and the floor.
The balance between softness and structure is central to the success of this design. The chair carries the commanding presence associated with high-back lounge seating, yet the flowing transitions between its elements prevent it from feeling rigid. Wikkelsø’s ability to merge comfort with sculptural clarity is especially evident here, making the model equally compelling as functional seating and as a statement piece within an interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The chair comes with its original leather that has developed a natural patina over time. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.93 in W x 35.04 in D x 35.44 in H; Seat height 14.57 in; Seat depth 21.26 in; Arm height 21.66 in
76 cm W x 89 cm D x 90 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 55 cm