Danish Cabinetmaker Armchair with Stained Beech Legs, Denmark ca 1940s

This armchair is an elegant and comfortable evidence of the mastery and artistry of the Danish master cabinetmakers who defined mid-20th century modern seating design. Danish Modern designs are mostly utilitarian objects and as such they can become consonant with users in ways no designer, cabinetmaker, or marketing executive ever envisioned. There is no better example than Danish Modern armchairs.

Perhaps the most significant achievement of Danish designers, cabinetmakers, and craftspeople at the height of mid-twentieth century modernist design was their ability to humanize what had been standardized, erasing the very dichotomy that had made other then-contemporary designs less appealing. This early example of the movement carries in it the cosy homely feeling that the style is beloved for, with rotund shapes and forms, prime materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmaker chairs may seem similar at first sight, however each model’s individuality becomes evident upon closer inspection. In this armchair’s case, its peculiar front, mismatched legs and unique upholstery stand out immediately, complemented by the gently rounded edges and enveloping back. The fully upholstered wooden frame rests on differing stained beech legs - block shaped in the front and bent in the back - that provide contrast to the light coloured fabric. The fabric’s rich texture and multicoloured lines accentuate the round arms, the curving top and the removable cushion. With the upholstered lower panel under the seat, the design appears to have double cushions stacked on each other. Without any excess decoration, the focus is on the round lines of the body and its unequalled upholstery.

Danish design allowed aesthetics to flow more naturally, which is clearly visible in the lines of this chair, from its embracing back to its voluptuous armrests. With a classic look, storied design and solid quality, this chair is truly soulful and timeless.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small scratches and marks on the wood. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:
27.95 in W x 33.46 in D x 33.46 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Arm height 24.21 in
71 cm W x 85 cm D x 85 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Arm height 61.5 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 armchair – 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.

Shipping:
This chair will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the item in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU.