Hans Wegner valet chair
This very rare valet chair was designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1953 and produced by the renowned Danish cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen in Copenhagen. Known as the ‘Jakkens hvile,’ the piece is an exemplary fusion of functionalism and organic form, embodying Wegner’s innovative approach to multifunctional furniture design. It uniquely combines the roles of a chair and a valet stand, intended both for seating and garment storage, reflecting Wegner’s commitment to practical elegance.
The chair’s primary structure is made from solid pine, complemented by teak and brass components. The wood displays a warm reddish-brown tone with a pronounced and expressive grain, particularly evident in the sculpted backrest and seat. The backrest is carved from a single piece of wood in the shape of a stylized coat hanger, designed to hold a jacket without causing creases. The seat is hinged and lifts to reveal a small storage compartment lined with leather, providing discreet functionality. The rear edge of the seat is gently curved to support trousers or belts, while brass hinges connect the movable seat to the frame with precision and durability.
The chair occupies a compact footprint, measuring 51 cm in width, 49 cm in depth, and 95 cm in height (approximately 20.1 inches wide, 19.3 inches deep, and 37.4 inches high), with a seat height of 43.5 cm (17.1 inches). The legs are tapered cylindrical profiles, joined by horizontal stretchers that add structural support and visual balance.
Hans Wegner is a seminal figure in Danish modernism, widely admired for his mastery of joinery and ability to translate sculptural beauty into functional furniture. His collaboration with Johannes Hansen, a leading cabinetmaker known for producing exceptionally crafted modernist pieces, resulted in many of his most refined works. The valet chair remains notable for its originality, high-quality craftsmanship, and enduring design relevance.
This example is in very good vintage condition, with a well-preserved finish and minor wear consistent with age and use. It stands as both a design classic and a technical achievement in combining utility, form, and fine cabinetmaking.
Literature
Grete Jalk [ed.] “40 Years of Danish Furniture Design”, vol. 3, p. 246-247.
Dimensions (cm) | W: 51 / D: 49 / H: 95 / Seat H: 43.5 |
| Producer | Johannes Hansen |
| Decade | 1950s |
| Country | Denmark |
| Style | Danish modern, Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
| Material | Brass, Pine, Teak |
| Designed in | 1953 |
| Item Number | 132810 |
Hans Wegner
Hans J. Wegner (1914–2007) was a Danish furniture designer and a leading figure in the mid-century modern movement. Known as the “Master of the Chair” Wegner created over 500 chair designs throughout his career, many of which have be...
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