Hans Wegner sofa

This rare three-seat sofa, model GE-236, was designed by Hans J. Wegner and produced by Getama in Denmark during the 1960s. The piece is constructed from solid oak and features original black leather cushions, embodying the structural clarity and restrained material palette characteristic of Danish modernism.

The frame is crafted from solid oak, finished in a medium natural tone that highlights the wood’s linear grain while providing a soft, warm contrast to the black leather upholstery. The backrest consists of horizontal oak slats supported by a sculptural Y-shaped side leg. This design element gives the sofa a strong architectural presence and showcases Wegner’s precise attention to supportive form and joinery. The oak remains well preserved, with minimal signs of wear and its original oil finish intact.

The seat and back cushions are upholstered in the original full-grain black leather, which has developed a rich patina through use. The leather shows creasing and softening consistent with age, particularly along the armrests and seat edges, but remains structurally sound with no cracks or repairs. The upholstery is firm yet comfortably yielding, with cushions cut to fit precisely within the recessed seat frame, avoiding slippage or gaps.

The GE-236 model illustrates Wegner’s focus on utility, honest construction, and balanced aesthetics. In contrast to many of his more curvilinear designs, this sofa expresses a linear and modular language while maintaining tactile comfort and warmth. The exposed slatted back serves as both a structural element and visual focal point, making the sofa compelling from both front and rear perspectives, suitable for freestanding placement in open-plan spaces.

Hans J. Wegner (1914–2007) was a pivotal figure in 20th-century furniture design, widely regarded as the master of the chair, and influential in sofa and lounge furniture as well. His long-standing collaboration with Getama, beginning in the 1950s, produced numerous refined pieces known for their craftsmanship and ergonomic design.

The sofa measures 215 cm in width, 84 cm in depth, and 78 cm in height, with a seat height of 39 cm. In imperial units, these dimensions are approximately 84.6 inches wide, 33.1 inches deep, 30.7 inches high, with a seat height of 15.4 inches. The GE-236 is prized for its combination of sculptural simplicity, natural materials, and enduring comfort.