Karl Yngve Håkansson rocking chair

This rare rocking chair, designed by Karl Yngve Håkansson in 1946, features a visually striking combination of fluidity and restraint, achieved through the use of bent laminated maple and an organically contoured seat. The form is defined by sweeping elliptical runners that transition into continuous arm supports, joined to a molded high-back shell. The backrest and seat are formed from a single curving plane that gently reclines to support the full length of the body, suggesting a sculptural dialogue between motion and stillness.

The frame is executed in laminated maple, presenting a warm, honey-toned surface with subtle grain structure and a fine satin finish. The seat has been newly reupholstered in a deep green wool fabric, offering a dense and soft texture that contrasts with the smooth, polished wood elements. The upholstery is tightly fitted, following the sinuous lines of the chair without visual interruption, preserving the original intent of the design.

Karl Yngve Håkansson’s contribution to postwar Scandinavian design is exemplified by this piece, which merges structural innovation with ergonomic refinement. Originally produced by Väsby Möbel & Inredningsfabrik, the chair reflects the Swedish commitment to modernist principles interpreted through craftsmanship. Its status as a design landmark was solidified by its inclusion in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, catalogued under inventory number SC306.1998. The chair’s patented structure, marked with “Patent nr 4292/45” underscores its role in expanding the formal and technical vocabulary of modern seating.

This example is in excellent condition. The maple frame shows minor traces of use consistent with age, but no structural issues or major wear. The recent upholstery work is clean, precise, and in keeping with the period character of the chair, complementing the original design integrity.

The chair measures 62.5 cm in width, 100 cm in depth, and 103.5 cm in height, with a seat height of 47 cm. In imperial units, this corresponds approximately to 24.6 inches wide, 39.4 inches deep, and 40.7 inches high, with a seat height of 18.5 inches.