Finn Juhl easy chair

The NV-45 easy chair, designed by Finn Juhl in 1945 and produced by cabinetmaker Niels Vodder, is a landmark in Danish mid-century furniture design. Introduced shortly after the end of World War II, the chair marked a pivotal point in Juhl’s career, showcasing his departure from conventional furniture architecture in favor of sculptural, floating forms that integrate craftsmanship with biomorphic design language.

The frame is crafted from solid teak, a hardwood favored for its stability and richly grained surface. The wood displays a warm patina developed over time, emphasizing its natural depth and tonal variation. The NV-45 is especially notable for the way its armrests and seat appear to float within the wooden frame, achieved through meticulous joinery and an almost invisible structural logic. The chair’s lines are fluid yet precise, with gently curving elements that highlight the organic influence in Juhl’s aesthetic thinking.

The upholstery has been renewed in a deep royal blue wool fabric, introducing a vivid contrast against the teak frame. Leather piping along the seams adds a refined transition between materials and reflects Juhl’s attention to tactile detailing. The updated fabric remains faithful to the chair’s original palette while contributing a refreshed visual presence suitable for both contemporary and historical interiors.

An original metal plaque from Illums Bolighus is affixed to the chair, signifying its provenance and association with one of Denmark’s most important retail and cultural institutions for modern design. The collaboration between Finn Juhl and Niels Vodder—arguably the most celebrated cabinetmaker of his time—resulted in furniture pieces of exceptional quality and individuality.

This example is in good vintage condition. The teak frame shows minor wear consistent with age and a small area of damage to one armrest wing, yet it retains its structural integrity and aged character. The renewed upholstery is in pristine condition. As an early example of Juhl’s NV-45, this chair holds a significant place in the evolution of Danish modernism, merging sculptural ambition with functional innovation.