Finn Juhl bench

The BO101 bench, designed by Finn Juhl and produced by Bovirke in Denmark in 1953, represents a refined synthesis of material elegance and structural clarity that defines the best of Danish modernist furniture. This rare bench reflects Juhl’s sculptural sensibility and his commitment to elevating functional forms into visually dynamic and artistically expressive objects.

Crafted with a richly grained rosewood top, the bench exhibits an intricate natural patterning across its surface. The rosewood’s deep, reddish-brown tones are emphasized by the piece’s elongated proportions and precise finishing. The top is framed with an inset brass trim that adds a touch of luminosity and subtle contrast. The brass elements serve both a decorative and structural function, underscoring Juhl’s characteristic integration of detail within the overall form.

The bench rests on a slender black lacquered metal frame, minimalist in appearance yet carefully considered in its proportion and geometry. The frame provides visual lightness while supporting the weight and length of the rosewood top with stability and poise. This interplay between the organic warmth of the wood, the polished brass detail, and the austere linearity of the metal base encapsulates the balance of materials and form that distinguishes Juhl’s work.

Finn Juhl’s design language was informed by his background in architecture and his deep appreciation for modern art. His designs consistently pushed beyond conventional joinery and structural norms, instead introducing flowing, often asymmetrical forms that prioritized visual movement and material interaction. While the BO101 bench adopts a more restrained geometric configuration, it still reveals Juhl’s sensitivity to surface, proportion, and the tactile presence of the object in space.

Produced by Bovirke, a firm known for its role in realizing many of Juhl’s designs during the mid-century period, the bench reflects the high standards of Danish cabinetmaking and furniture production. The collaboration between designer and manufacturer resulted in pieces that remain revered for their craftsmanship and timeless aesthetic.

Measuring 225 cm in width, 45.5 cm in depth, and 40 cm in height, with a seat height of 39 cm (88.6 x 17.9 x 15.7 inches, seat height 15.4 inches), the BO101 is both functional and architectural, suitable for a variety of settings, from residential interiors to public spaces. It stands as a significant piece in the narrative of Scandinavian modern design and exemplifies Finn Juhl’s enduring influence on 20th-century furniture.