Mogens Voltelen "Københavnerstolen" for Niels Vodder, Denmark ca 1936

This “Københavnerstolen” (Copenhagen Chair) is Mogens Voltelen’s most famous design. This particular model is from an early edition, which can be observed in the armrests that are directly attached to the sides of the backrest.

The sweeping patinated oak frame and diverse lines create the distinctive silhouette of this easy chair. The patinated natural leather upholstery is fitted with brass nails giving the chair an elegant and impressive look. The leather strap armrests mirror the arched legs, while the front legs balance out the curves of the back and seat.

The chair was designed in 1936 and manufactured by the Danish cabinetmaker Niels Vodder. Firsthand accounts from Vodder’s contemporaries described him as the best cabinetmaker in Denmark. The master cabinetmaker exhibited his work almost every year at the Copenhagen Guild Exhibitions.

About the designer:
Mogens Jakob Ammitzbøll Voltelen (1908-1995) was a Danish architect and designer, born in in Sørup. Between 1925 and 1927 he studied at the School of Architecture and following his graduation, he got employed by both Poul Henningsen and Vilhelm Laritzen.

Voltelen learned the importance of lifelong dedication from Poul Henningsen and became part of the cultural radical movement. Between 1927 and 1929, he was an employee and editorial secretary at PH’s Kritisk Revy (Critical Revue) along with various other publications within the industry, including the Handbook for the Building Industry and the Kulturkampen. Mogens Voltelen became a teacher and lecturer and the School of Architecture in 1940 and continued to inspire the next generation of designers for many years. He was also the head of research at the Statens Byggeforskningsinstitut (Danish Building Research Institute) from 1947 to 1951.

As a designer, Voltelen is mainly remembered for his “Copenhagen Chair” and his lamp designs such as the “Centura Ceiling Lamp”. ~H.