Karl-Erik Ekselius easy chairs

This rare pair of easy chairs was designed by Karl-Erik Ekselius and produced by JOC (J.O. Carlssons Möbelindustri) in Sweden during the 1960s. The chairs exemplify mid-century Scandinavian design through a combination of robust geometric framing and the softness of quality upholstery materials.

The base and frame are constructed from solid teak, featuring square-profile legs and an exposed architectural structure. The teak has a medium tone with a deep reddish hue and well-defined grain, finished with a smooth matte surface. The frames remain in very good condition, showing only minor wear from age and use, preserving the clean lines and visual clarity inherent to the design.

The seat, backrest, and integrated armrests are fully upholstered in the original black leather, which features a classic deep button-tufted pattern on both the seat and back cushions. The leather shows a mild patina with surface creasing that contributes character without affecting structural integrity. The buttoning is intact and evenly tensioned, maintaining firm seating and adding textural detail.

The chairs exhibit a rectilinear and grounded form, with a slightly reclined backrest for comfort and inward-sloping armrests that concentrate visual weight toward the center. This balanced and proportionate design reflects Ekselius’s background as an industrial designer focused on refined utility.

Karl-Erik Ekselius (1929–1990s) was a Swedish architect and designer known for his collaboration with JOC, where he developed furniture for both residential and commercial use. His work bridges traditional craftsmanship with modernist efficiency, resulting in pieces that are both elegant and durable. JOC, based in Vetlanda, Sweden, was a progressive manufacturer during the mid-century period, noted for working with Scandinavian designers and exporting internationally.

Each chair measures 72 cm in width, 77 cm in depth, and 73 cm in height, with a seat height of 40 cm. In imperial units, these dimensions are approximately 28.3 inches wide, 30.3 inches deep, 28.7 inches high, and a seat height of 15.7 inches. This pair is suitable for both private and public interiors that value graphic presence, comfort, and material authenticity.