Arne Vodder dining chairs

This rare set of six dining chairs, model 203, was designed by Danish architect and furniture designer Arne Vodder and produced by France & Daverkosen in Denmark in 1957. The chairs feature a refined synthesis of sculptural woodwork, brass hardware, and high-quality leather upholstery, reflecting the peak of Danish modernist design during the mid-20th century.

The frame is crafted from solid teak, showcasing a warm, reddish-brown hue with a natural grain pattern and subtle curvature in the back legs and stretcher joints. The structure emphasizes slender proportions and organic transitions between components, with gently tapering legs and elegantly contoured supports. The seat and backrest are upholstered in original brown leather, aged to a soft patina with visible signs of use, including natural creases and tonal variation. The backrest is slightly suspended from the frame via brass mounting rods, allowing for a flexible and ergonomic seating experience while introducing a visually light and floating element to the composition.

The materials—solid teak, patinated brass, and full-grain leather—are carefully balanced in both color and texture, each element contributing to the chair’s understated sophistication. The craftsmanship is evident in the joinery, shaping, and finish, which remain faithful to Vodder’s emphasis on refined detailing and functional beauty.

Arne Vodder (1926–2009) was a prominent figure in Danish design, known for his collaborations with manufacturers such as Sibast, Fritz Hansen, and France & Daverkosen. A student of Finn Juhl, Vodder embraced an architectural approach to furniture design, often characterized by organic forms, thoughtful ergonomics, and restrained decoration. His works were widely exported and furnished interiors from embassies to corporate offices throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

France & Daverkosen, a significant Danish furniture producer, played a vital role in the international success of Scandinavian modern furniture. The company was known for its early adoption of modern manufacturing techniques while maintaining a commitment to material integrity and design fidelity. In the 1960s, the company evolved into France & Søn, continuing to produce some of Denmark’s most iconic mid-century designs.

This set is in good vintage condition, with consistent patina and wear across all six chairs. The leather shows moderate signs of use but retains its structural soundness and visual depth. The teak frames have minor surface marks and oxidation on brass details, consistent with regular use and age.

Each chair measures 51 centimeters in width, 56 centimeters in depth, and 85.5 centimeters in height, with a seat height of 43.5 centimeters. These measurements correspond to approximately 20.1 by 22 by 33.7 inches, with a seat height of 17.1 inches. The model 203 chairs remain a highly regarded example of mid-century Scandinavian dining furniture, combining visual elegance with enduring material quality.