Ib Kofod Larsen “Sälen” Seal Lounge Chair for OPE — Afromosia & Moss Leather

Few lounge chairs from the golden age of Scandinavian modern design have the immediate presence of the Sälen, or “Seal” Chair, designed by celebrated Danish designer Ib Kofod-Larsen for OPE of Sweden in the late 1950s. Sculptural yet remarkably restrained, the Seal Chair is one of Kofod-Larsen’s most recognizable designs and a superb example of the organic forms and exceptional craftsmanship that defined postwar Scandinavian furniture.

The chair is distinguished by its deeply reclined, upholstered shell, suspended within an exceptionally refined Afromosia frame. Kofod-Larsen creates a striking tension between the substantial upholstered body and the lightness of the exposed wood structure. From the side, the chair’s construction is especially beautiful: long tapered legs, slender side rails, and sculpted arms frame the upholstered seat and back without visually overwhelming them. The result is a lounge chair that feels generous and comfortable while retaining the elegance and visual lightness characteristic of Kofod-Larsen’s finest work.

The Sälen chair takes its name from Sälen, the well-known ski resort area in Sweden, rather than from the English word “seal.” Designed by Danish designer Ib Kofod-Larsen for Swedish manufacturer OPE, the chair represents an important intersection of Danish design sensibility and Swedish furniture production during the late 1950s.

This example is crafted in Afromosia, also known as African teak, a richly toned hardwood prized by Scandinavian cabinetmakers for its strength, fine grain, and warm coloration. The sculptural frame showcases Kofod-Larsen’s mastery of wood from every angle. Slender splayed legs flow upward into beautifully shaped arms, while the subtly pointed, outward-sweeping armrests give the chair its unmistakable silhouette. The transitions are soft and organic, with virtually no visual heaviness despite the chair’s generous proportions.

The chair has been upholstered in a deep olive green leather, a particularly handsome complement to the warm brown tones of the Afromosia frame. Rather than relying on a rigid platform, the seat incorporates Danish suspension straps and a spring-loaded seat construction, providing additional give beneath the cushion. The result is the kind of deep, forgiving comfort suggested by the chair’s enveloping form: supportive, relaxed, and intended for genuine lounging.

An especially desirable detail is the original Illums Bolighus, København retailer’s plaque beneath the chair. Illums Bolighus was an important Copenhagen destination for Scandinavian modern furnishings, and the surviving plaque provides an appealing period connection to the chair’s original Scandinavian retail history.

Viewed from the front, side, or rear, the Sälen is exceptionally resolved. The dramatic sweep of the arms, exposed Afromosia side rails, deeply reclined shell, tapered legs, and uninterrupted leather back make this a chair that was clearly intended to be appreciated in the round. It works equally well as a statement lounge chair in a living room, study, library, or alongside other important examples of Danish and Scandinavian modern design.

About Ib Kofod Larsen:

Ib Kofod-Larsen designed the Seal chair as part of an assignment by the Swedish furniture maker OPE Möbler. The task was for Kofod-Larsen to design a series of 'Danish' furniture with the aim of reviving Swedish postwar furniture design.

Ib Kofod-Larsen (1921-2003) was a Danish furniture designer who studied at the Danish Royal Academy in Copenhagen. After his degree, he quickly became recognized. As he won several prices of which one from the Danish Cabinetmakers Guild. It was this price that led to the collaboration between manufacturer Faarup Møbelfabrik, and Kofod-Larsen. Later, he also collaborated with other manufacturers such as High Wycombe and Christensen & Larsen. His designs are recognized by the use of rich, durable materials such as rosewood, teak and the highest quality leather. He is known for enhancing these noble materials by means of his aesthetics, leaving the form, grain or other characteristics to speak for themselves. His most praised designs are all elegant, sculpted pieces such as the U-56 Elizabeth chair.

Designer: Ib Kofod-Larsen
Model: Sälen / Seal Chair
Manufacturer: OPE, Sweden
Period: Late 1950s / Mid-Century Modern
Materials: Afromosia (African teak), leather, suspension straps and spring-supported seat
Upholstery: Olive green leather
Retailer: Illums Bolighus, Copenhagen
Dimensions: 31 in. W × 29 in. D × 29.5 in. H - Seat Height: 15.5