Frits Henningsen attrib. armchair

This rare armchair, attributed to Danish cabinetmaker Frits Henningsen and produced in Denmark during the 1930s, represents a distinguished example of early 20th-century Scandinavian craftsmanship. The chair is constructed from solid oak with seat and back upholstery in naturally patinated leather, reflecting a refined blend of traditional cabinetmaking and organic materiality.

The leather upholstery has aged to a deep, rich brown, marked by natural wear and creasing that creates a textured surface, bearing witness to its history and extended use. The oak frame is finished in warm tones, showcasing visible grain patterns particularly prominent on the carved cabriole front legs and the gracefully scrolled armrests, which emphasize the high level of artisanal woodworking.

The chair’s silhouette is defined by a subtly contoured backrest, gently curving inward at the top edge to produce a softly sculptural form. The arm supports emerge elegantly from the upper seat frame, flowing into hand-shaped, horizontally scrolled armrests that are visually and structurally integrated into the overall design. The lower edge of the leather upholstery is accented with a row of closely set brass nailhead trim, visually anchoring the seat to the frame while reinforcing the upholstery in a traditional manner. The front legs are detailed with low-relief foliate carving and terminate in hoof-like feet, while the rear legs are more understated but maintain the fluid curvature characteristic of the period.

Frits Henningsen (1889–1965) was celebrated for his dedication to quality and preference for handcraftsmanship over industrial production. Trained in the Danish tradition, he operated his own workshop producing limited quantities of furniture. His work bridges 18th-century European stylistic influences with the emerging Danish modern movement, combining classical forms with a clear respect for materials and construction integrity.

This armchair embodies Scandinavian classicism with distinct Rococo and Baroque echoes, especially visible in the leg profiles and decorative details. It represents a transitional piece, merging historical references with modern restraint typical of Henningsen’s interwar approach.

The chair measures 77 cm in width, 66 cm in depth, and 96 cm in height, with a seat height of 50 cm (approximately 30.3 x 26.0 x 37.8 inches, seat height 19.7 inches). The overall condition is very good, with the patinated leather showing age-appropriate wear that enhances its authenticity and character. The wooden frame remains structurally sound with rich coloration and finely preserved detailing.