Bernt Petersen stool

This rare stool was designed by Danish cabinetmaker Bernt Petersen and produced by Wørts Møbelsnedkeri in Denmark during the 1950s. The design reflects the core principles of Danish modernism, emphasizing craftsmanship, material integrity, and visual lightness.

The stool is constructed from solid rosewood, with a handwoven cane seat. The frame is precisely sculpted, featuring slender, tapering legs that curve subtly inward at the top. Notably, the legs include a distinctive notched detail near the foot, which serves as both a functional and aesthetic interruption, enhancing the visual rhythm and tactile interest of the piece. The seat is slightly recessed within the frame, with the traditionally woven open cane structure giving the stool a lightweight appearance while maintaining structural support.

The rich, dark brown hue of the rosewood is enhanced by a fine grain pattern and natural luster, contributing to the stool’s sophisticated aesthetic. The contrast between the dense hardwood frame and the woven organic surface strikes a refined balance between delicacy and durability. The stool’s proportions are compact, and the elegant shaping of the frame, along with the gentle concavity of the seat, makes the piece visually dynamic and functional.

The stool is in excellent condition, with the rosewood displaying a consistent finish and the cane seat remaining in structurally sound and clean condition. There is minimal visible wear, limited to very minor signs of age on the frame, which are consistent with careful use.

The dimensions of the stool are 45 cm in width, 45 cm in depth, and 41 cm in height, with a seat height of 40 cm (approximately 17.7 inches wide, 17.7 inches deep, 16.1 inches high, and a seat height of 15.7 inches). This piece stands as a fine example of mid-century Danish design, combining form, function, and a refined balance of materials.