Ib Kofod-Larsen easy chairs

This is a rare and historically significant pair of “Elizabeth” easy chairs, model U56, accompanied by an ottoman, designed by Danish architect and furniture designer Ib Kofod-Larsen in 1956. Produced by the renowned cabinetmaking firm Christiansen & Larsen, this version of the chair exemplifies Danish modernism at its highest level of craftsmanship and material selection.

The chairs feature a sculptural frame in solid rosewood, exhibiting deep, expressive grain patterns and a warm, reddish-brown tone characteristic of this now-protected tropical hardwood. The softly curved armrests and tapered legs display refined hand-tooling, with each joint and transition exhibiting a seamless blend of organic form and structural logic. The shell is upholstered in the original black leather, forming an elegant and continuous curve from the seat to the backrest. The loose leather cushion is filled with down, conforming to the body while resting within the concave shell structure. The matching ottoman shares the same refined profile and materials, offering cohesive visual balance and functional comfort.

Ib Kofod-Larsen (1921–2003) was known for his architectural sensibilities in furniture design, often working with premium materials and aiming for ergonomic sophistication. His work is defined by its lightness, sculptural character, and seamless synthesis of form and function. Although not as publicly recognized during his career as some of his contemporaries, Kofod-Larsen’s designs are now internationally celebrated for their craftsmanship and aesthetic clarity.

Christiansen & Larsen was a Danish cabinetmaking firm active in the mid-20th century, known for its high-quality artisan furniture production. Their collaboration with Kofod-Larsen resulted in several pieces of fine joinery and sculptural woodwork, combining traditional Danish woodworking techniques with a more progressive, international design language.

Originally titled Model U56, the chair gained the informal name “Elizabeth Chair” after Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip purchased a pair during their state visit to Denmark in 1958. This association brought lasting fame to the model, embedding it in the cultural and diplomatic design history of Denmark.

The armchairs measure 79 cm in height, 74 cm in width, and 71 cm in depth (31.1 x 29.1 x 28 inches), with a seat height of 35 cm (13.8 inches). The ottoman measures 57 cm wide, 45 cm deep, and 38 cm high (22.4 x 17.7 x 15 inches). The entire set is in excellent condition with a well-preserved patina, showing only minor signs of use consistent with age, underscoring its authenticity and care over time.