A Pair of Danish Ribbed Back Lounge Chairs, Denmark 1960s

The 1960s saw brilliant designers working to create furniture of the highest quality that explored truly modern shapes and forms. These designers experimented with new materials and construction methods but, crucially, they all had a formal training, either as architects or as furniture makers. This pair of sculptural lounge chairs show how successful these experiments were.

Dating from this period of unbridled creation, this exceptional pair of teak lounge chairs preserves the traditional ideals of Scandinavian design, while also utilising the new techniques the 1960s brought by. The outstanding architectural frames recall the mastery of Ib Kofod Larsen’s lounge chair designs that won over even her majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, who during a visit to Denmark in 1958 came in contact with these ribbed back chair designs and liked them so much that she bought several pieces. The lines are crisp and elegant, aiding the stability, comfort and ergonomic design of this pair. The visible joinery, the raised seat and ribbed backs are especially expressive of the mastery of the cabinetmaker.

While the 1960s saw the takeover of mass production and many - now iconic - futuristic designs, these chairs preserve the value and beauty of master craftsmanship and exquisite materials. Countering the often vivid colours and designs of the era, the teak frame is paired with a light, premium bouclé upholstery.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some cracks and scratches on the wood. The chairs have been recently reupholstered in a premium bouclé fabric.

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 cabinet makers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.

The works of master cabinetmakers are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinet makers 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 cabinet makers 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 recognisable today. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinet maker. ~H.