Finn Juhl easy chairs

This is a rare pair of model Japan / FD-137 easy chairs with matching footstools, designed by Danish architect and furniture designer Finn Juhl and produced by France & Son during the 1950s. The set exemplifies Juhl’s sculptural approach to seating design, incorporating soft angles, light proportions, and meticulous material combinations typical of mid-century Scandinavian modernism.

The frames are crafted from solid teak, a wood Juhl favored for its rich grain and warm hue. The exposed joinery and rounded, tapered legs emphasize craftsmanship while preserving a sense of visual lightness. Brass fittings discreetly reinforce the backrest connection and provide subtle contrast to the dark wood. The seats and backrests have been newly reupholstered in high-quality wool fabric. The main upholstery is a neutral tone, paired with removable seat cushions in a vibrant yellow, offering a refined but playful chromatic accent.

Finn Juhl (1912–1989) was one of the pioneering figures of Danish modern design, known for his organic shapes and architectural sensibility. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Juhl trained as an architect rather than a cabinetmaker, which gave him a unique perspective on form and spatial composition. The Japan series was inspired by Juhl’s impressions of Japanese temple architecture, reflecting balance, symmetry, and floating horizontal planes. France & Son was a key industrial partner in the 1950s and 1960s for many leading Danish designers, and they executed Juhl’s complex forms with precision and technical innovation.

This particular pair is in good vintage condition with only minor signs of use and a well-preserved patina to the teak surfaces. The newly upholstered cushions restore the intended comfort and highlight the sculptural geometry of the original design without altering its integrity.