Axel Einar Hjorth Lovö chair

This rare Lovö chair was designed by Axel Einar Hjorth and produced by Nordiska Kompaniet in Sweden during the 1930s. It is executed in solid pine combined with wrought-iron fasteners, a material pairing characteristic of Hjorth’s Sportstugemöbler series. The chair has a distinctly rustic construction, emphasizing exposed joinery, simple geometries, and the natural expression of the wood.

The backrest is formed from a single wide pine board with a gently rounded top edge and slightly curved lower section that transitions into the seat. The surface shows a prominent grain pattern with alternating darker and lighter growth lines, typical of slow-grown Scandinavian pine. Four visible wrought-iron bolts secure the backrest to the vertical supports, adding a functional and decorative detail. The seat is constructed from a pine board with a rich grain figure and framed by solid edges with precisely cut corner joints.

The legs are straight and rectangular in profile, providing a stable base while maintaining the straightforward character of the design. The rear legs are slightly angled to meet the backrest supports, creating a continuous structural line. All surfaces exhibit the natural variations, knots, and texture of the pine, which gains depth and warmth through age and patina. The iron fittings retain traces of oxidation, further contributing to the authentic rustic appearance.

The Lovö model belongs to the Sportstugemöbler collection designed for Swedish holiday cabins and rural retreats. Hjorth developed this series around robust materials and traditional craftsmanship while integrating modern proportions and an understated sculptural quality. The furniture was intentionally simple, but carefully detailed—an approach that gives this chair both practical durability and a strong visual identity.

The condition is good vintage with signs of usage and patina, including marks, wear to edges, and natural darkening of the wood. These characteristics reflect the age of the piece and are consistent with the intended rustic aesthetic.

The dimensions are 47.5 cm in width, 51 cm in depth, and 95.5 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 18.7 inches by 20.1 inches by 37.6 inches. The seat height of 40 cm equals approximately 15.7 inches.