Arne Jacobsen easy chair

This rare easy chair, model 3316, known as the Egg chair, was designed by Arne Jacobsen and produced by Fritz Hansen in Denmark during the 1960s. The chair features its original black leather upholstery, which has developed a natural patina over time, adding character and enhancing the piece’s vintage appeal. The organic, sculptural form of the shell is supported by a four-star aluminium swivel base, allowing for smooth rotation while maintaining stability.

Arne Jacobsen, one of Denmark’s most influential designers, created the Egg chair in 1958 as part of his design work for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. The chair was designed to offer a sense of privacy and enclosure within the open, modernist interior spaces, a response to the minimalist architecture of the time. Its innovative construction features a foam-moulded shell covered in leather, providing both ergonomic comfort and visual elegance. The Egg chair quickly became an iconic example of mid-century Danish modern design, showcasing Jacobsen’s mastery of form and function.

Fritz Hansen, the Danish furniture manufacturer behind the Egg chair, is known for its commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and its collaboration with leading designers. The company played a significant role in promoting Danish modern furniture internationally, and its work with Jacobsen helped solidify the Egg chair’s place as a symbol of modernist design.

This particular example retains its original black leather upholstery, which exhibits areas of natural creasing and patina, consistent with its age and use. These wear marks add to the authenticity and charm of the chair. The aluminium base remains in well-preserved condition with only minor surface wear, retaining its sleek and timeless look.

The dimensions of the chair are 87 cm in width (34.3 inches), 80 cm in depth (31.5 inches), and 106.5 cm in height (41.9 inches), with a seat height of 37 cm (14.6 inches). This Egg chair is a remarkable piece of mid-century Scandinavian modern design, offering both functional elegance and a sculptural presence that continues to captivate design enthusiasts today.