Aksel Bender Madsen & Ejner Larsen armchair

This rare armchair, model 1924/S, is an exemplary piece of Danish modern design. The chair features a sculptural teak frame paired with its original patinated leather upholstery. The form is characterized by soft curves and precise joinery. The broad, gently curved backrest and ergonomically contoured seat provide comfort, while the armrests extend seamlessly from the frame, showcasing a continuous flow of form and material. The warm tones of the teak legs contrast subtly with the deep, aged tones of the leather, which display a rich, varied patina developed over decades of use.

The condition of the armchair is very good, with the original leather displaying surface wear, discoloration, and natural creases characteristic of well-preserved vintage leather. The teak frame retains its original finish with minor wear consistent with age. Structurally, the chair remains stable and sound, preserving the craftsmanship and materials from its original production.

The armchair was designed by Aksel Bender Madsen and Ejner Larsen, two leading figures in the Danish modern movement. The design was first presented at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild Exhibition in Forum in 1954, an annual showcase where Danish designers and cabinetmakers exhibited their finest work. Larsen and Bender Madsen were known for their human-centered approach to design, emphasizing ergonomics, craftsmanship, and understated elegance. Their partnership produced numerous celebrated seating designs, and this armchair represents one of their most refined contributions to the genre of Danish cabinetmaker furniture.

This model was produced by Willy Beck, a renowned Copenhagen cabinetmaker celebrated for his collaborations with some of Denmark’s most significant designers. Beck’s workshop specialized in producing high-quality furniture for the Cabinetmakers’ Guild Exhibitions, and his work exemplified the highest standards of Danish craftsmanship during the mid-20th century.

The style of this chair reflects the key attributes of 1950s Danish modernism: clarity of structure, honesty of materials, and an elegant synthesis of form and function. The chair’s graceful silhouette, combined with the warmth of the teak and the tactile quality of the aged leather, creates a piece that is both sculptural and inviting.

The dimensions of the chair are approximately 69 cm wide, 63 cm deep, and 79.5 cm high. This corresponds to approximately 27.2 inches wide, 24.8 inches deep, and 31.3 inches high. The seat height is 41 cm (16.1 inches), and the arm height is 64 cm (25.2 inches).