Kurt Olsen “Model 215” Easy Chairs for Slagelse Møbelværk, Denmark 1950s

This pair of “Model 215” easy chairs were designed by Danish designer and architect Kurt Olsen, and unifies some of the best characteristics of mid-century Danish design and craftsmanship.

The elegantly modern and precise design of these chairs is in big part thanks to Olsen’s background in architecture as well as design. The stained beech frames show the architectural influence with their geometric lines. Kurt Olsen liked to find non-conventional ways to present the area where the legs and armrests met, in this case with an x-shaped arch. This feature immediately creates a focal point and naturally attracts the eyes. The geometry of it also nicely contrasts to the more organic shape of the upholstered seat and back cushions. The seats are angled and slightly raised towards the front, and together with the backrests they assure a high level of comfort. The loose seat cushions and the widening armrests further show the designer’s mindset that revolved around the Danish ideal of “form follows function”. The backrests have gently rounded edges with button tufting which adds to the stylish mid-century modern softness that is still much coveted.

In the mid-fifties Kurt Olsen designed for Slagelse Møbelvaerk where master joiners A. Andersen and Bohm made a lot of his designs. This pair of chairs is also an outstanding result of this fruitful collaboration. The beech wood has a beautiful grain which contrasts nicely with the ­­­light upholstery.

Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks on the wood. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in 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:
26.57 in W x 29.92 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 13.77 in
67.5 cm W x 76 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 35 cm

Literature:
Bygge & Bo, June 1954, p. 89.

About the designer:
Kurt Olsen is one of the more anonymous designers, even though his designs are well-known and truly stunning. Mid-fifties Kurt Olsen designed primarily for the Danish manufactory, Slagelse Møbelvaerk, where master joiners A. Andersen and Bohm made a lot of his designs. This collaboration resulted in an array of seating furniture culminating in his masterpiece lounge- and armchairs.

Furniture from Slagelse Møbelvaerk is considered to be essential in any good collection of Danish mid-century furniture. The Danish furniture manufacturer produced a substantial part of many Danish designers’ models between the 1940s and 1970s, including Kurt Ostervig, Arne Vodder, Ib Kofod-Larsen, and Kurt Olsen.

Slagelse collaborated with an array of renewing Danish designers to bring new and daring designs. At Slagelse Møbelvaerk, Kurt Olsen and his fellow designers got to work with a team of highly skilled craftsmen, who allowed their designs’ complex shapes and joints to take form. ~H.

Shipping:
These armchairs will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the items 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.