Frits Henningsen armchair

This is a very rare armchair designed by Danish master cabinetmaker Frits Henningsen, produced in Denmark during the 1930s. The chair is crafted from solid mahogany with original natural leather upholstery, representing an early and refined example of Scandinavian design that balances traditional craftsmanship with subtle modernist restraint.

The frame is made from dark-stained mahogany, a dense and fine-grained hardwood known for its structural stability and aesthetic richness. The legs are straight at the front and gently splayed at the rear, connected by cross-stretchers for added durability. The wood has developed a warm patina over time, which complements the golden-brown hues of the leather.

The leather upholstery is original, showing a complex and richly worn surface with visible marks, stains, and age-related discoloration, which lend authenticity and historical depth to the chair. The natural vegetable-tanned hide displays variations in tone and texture and is secured with a double row of decorative brass nailheads along the edges of the seat and the curved, flared arms. The armrests are particularly sculptural, extending outward in a broad sweep from the backrest, creating a visual gesture that enhances the chair’s presence while also enveloping the sitter.

The form is compact and elegant, with a high level of craftsmanship evident in the seamless transitions between frame and upholstery, as well as the harmonious proportions. The backrest is upright and supportive, while the arms provide gentle lateral enclosure, making the chair suitable for both lounge and occasional use.

Frits Henningsen, active throughout the first half of the 20th century, was renowned for producing all of his designs in his Copenhagen workshop, emphasizing traditional joinery, hand-finishing, and the use of high-quality materials. While his later works embraced more modernist tendencies, this earlier armchair retains the classical influences of 18th and 19th-century European furniture, interpreted with subtle simplification and ergonomic refinement.

The armchair is in good structural condition, with wear to the leather consistent with its age. The dimensions are 62.5 cm in width, 60 cm in depth, and 76.5 cm in height, with a seat height of 45 cm (approximately 24.6 x 23.6 x 30.1 inches, SH: 17.7 inches). This piece is a rare surviving example of Henningsen’s early work, offering historical significance and character within the canon of Scandinavian cabinetmaking.