Torbjørn Afdal easy chairs

This rare pair of Hunter easy chairs, designed by Torbjørn Afdal in 1962 and produced by Bruksbo in Norway, represents a refined interpretation of the safari chair typology within the broader context of Scandinavian modernism. Characterized by its balance of rugged materials and thoughtful design detailing, the Hunter chair is a hallmark of Afdal’s approach—elevating traditional forms through architectural precision and material integrity.

The chairs feature a solid hardwood frame, likely crafted from oak or beech, with a warm, golden-brown finish that emphasizes the natural grain and structure of the wood. The construction is based on a clean and functional form, with the frame held together by exposed dowels and bracing elements that lend a sense of structural honesty and visual rhythm. The profile is low and wide, with a slightly reclined backrest and open sides that give the chairs a spacious and relaxed presence.

The seating surfaces are composed of thick, saddle-stitched brown leather panels, suspended between the wooden frame to create a supportive and flexible seat. Over time, the leather has developed a beautifully worn patina, with soft creases and tonal variation that contribute to the tactile richness and authenticity of the piece. The leather is tensioned and held in place by solid brass fittings and buckles—functional components that also serve as elegant visual accents. Brass rivets and adjustment hardware reinforce the chair’s utilitarian roots while underscoring the attention to detail that defines Afdal’s design language.

Leather armrests mirror the construction of the seat and backrest, attached to the frame with adjustable straps and brass fasteners. These provide not only comfort but also reinforce the design’s safari-inspired origins, referencing the portability and adaptability of early 20th-century campaign furniture while updating it with modern proportions and Nordic restraint.

The overall aesthetic is robust yet elegant, striking a balance between functionality and refined craftsmanship. The chairs’ slightly reclined posture, wide seat base, and suspended leather cushioning ensure a high level of comfort, making them ideal for extended lounging or as statement pieces in a relaxed, design-conscious interior.

Torbjørn Afdal (1917–1999) was one of Norway’s most respected postwar designers. His work with Bruksbo, a leading Norwegian furniture manufacturer, helped define the country’s contribution to Scandinavian modernism. Afdal’s designs are known for their clarity, craftsmanship, and understated sophistication, and the Hunter chair stands as one of his most iconic pieces.

In very good vintage condition, the chairs exhibit light signs of age and use, with the leather displaying a desirable patina and the wooden frames remaining structurally sound. Minor surface wear and oxidation on the brass elements are consistent with age and only enhance the character of the pieces.

This pair of Hunter chairs encapsulates the essence of Norwegian mid-century design—grounded in natural materials, crafted with precision, and thoughtfully attuned to both aesthetic and functional needs. Their enduring appeal lies in the harmonious interplay of rugged beauty and refined execution.