Vilhelm Lauritzen musician chair

This rare musician’s chair was designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen around 1942 for the National Broadcasting House (Radiohuset) in Copenhagen, Denmark. Intended to accommodate the needs of musicians during performance and rehearsal, the chair combines sculptural elegance with technical adjustability and ergonomic support.

The frame is constructed in solid oak, shaped with pronounced curvature and tapering, which lends the chair a fluid, organic presence. The legs are slightly splayed and braced by elliptical stretchers for lateral stability. Brass fittings at the feet provide durability and visual refinement. The overall form is both delicate and robust, reflecting the architectural sensibilities of its designer. The seat and dual backrests are upholstered in a green wool fabric with subtle texture. These oval-shaped cushions are mounted to the oak frame with brass hardware, allowing for height and angle adjustments—a rare and thoughtful feature tailored for musicians who require flexibility during use. The adjustment slots are machined into the back uprights with precise joinery and solid brass insertions, enabling secure locking at various settings.

Vilhelm Lauritzen (1894–1984) was one of Denmark’s leading functionalist architects and the designer of a number of prominent public buildings, including Copenhagen Airport and the Danish Broadcasting Corporation’s former headquarters. His furniture designs were typically created in direct relation to his architectural projects and thus exist in very limited quantities. This chair is a prime example of his total design philosophy, where form, function, and craftsmanship are unified.

The chair is in excellent structural condition. The oak surfaces show minimal wear with a well-preserved finish, and the upholstery appears recently replaced or expertly conserved. The brass detailing has aged naturally with an even patina.

Dimensions are 42 cm wide, 55 cm deep, and 80 cm high, with a seat height of 40 cm (equivalent to 16.5 inches wide, 21.7 inches deep, 31.5 inches high, seat height 15.7 inches).