Danish Patinated Leather Safari Chair, Denmark, ca 1960s

About the Item

The design of this remarkable chair sis based on a long tradition of safari chairs. From Eileen Gray to Kaare Klint and Elias Svedberg, a lot of great designers have made versions of this self-assembled seating, which probably finds it origin in the Indian Roorkhee Chairs used by the British military. This chair blends three main elements: Danish craftsmanship, the clean lines of Modernism and the clear-eyed practicality of Functionalism. The design blends these elements with the use of exquisite materials to create a chair that is both historical and modern visually. This Danish-made chair is defined by its woven seat and its very material, the patinated leather. The seat is composed of leather straps woven in a so-called basket weave pattern and stretched over the solid wood frame. Thanks to the material’s qualities, the seat is very ergonomic, adapting to the sitter’s shape. The same applies to the suspended leather arms and back. Furthermore, the seat is raised, and the back reclined for comfort making this chair perfect for lounging as well. The exposed screws and stitches provide an almost rustic look that recalls this chair style’s historic origin. The slim, tapered legs support the armrests and the backrest, which allows the design to look sleek and airy even with a solid wood construction. This chair is a prime example of Danish mid-century designers’ design ideology. The maker of this model effortlessly transformed a historical archetype into a modern, but still timeless chair. While inspired by its British predecessor, this chair’s sophisticated, lightweight look is defined by its signature craftsmanship, well-conceived proportions, and remarkable material choices. Condition: In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood. The leather has beautiful patina. Dimensions: 25 in W x 24.01 in D x 29.33 in H; Seat height 23.42 in 63.5 cm W x 61 cm D x 74.5 cm H; Seat height 59.5 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 chair – 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 armchair will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to make sure you will receive the item in the gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

Dimensions:

Height: 29.34 in (74.5 cm)Width: 25.01 in (63.5 cm)Depth: 24.02 in (61 cm)Seat Height: 23.43 in (59.5 cm)

Style:

Scandinavian Modern (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Leather,Wood

Place of Origin:

Denmark

Period:

Mid-20th Century

Date of Manufacture:

1960