Frits Henningsen sofa

This exceptionally rare sofa, designed and produced by Frits Henningsen in the 1940s, represents the convergence of traditional cabinetmaking and modern Scandinavian design sensibilities. Henningsen, both a designer and a practicing cabinetmaker, is widely recognized for his meticulous approach to craftsmanship and his refined understanding of form and proportion. This particular model, first exhibited at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild Exhibition in 1936 and later documented in Dansk Møbelkunst gennem 40 aar by Grete Jalk (Vol. 1, 1927–1936, p. 247), exemplifies his commitment to handcrafted excellence and understated elegance.

The sofa is constructed from solid oak, a material favored by Henningsen for its strength, texture, and warmth. Over time, the wood has developed a rich patina, lending the piece an aged yet vibrant character. The frame is distinguished by a high back and sides, designed to create a subtle sense of privacy and enclosure—an element that balances visual formality with personal comfort. The form is defined by softly contoured transitions, particularly at the corners and edges, revealing the sensitivity with which Henningsen approached both ergonomics and aesthetics.

Upholstered in deep red-brown leather, the seat and inner surfaces display a nuanced patination consistent with decades of careful use. The leather has aged gracefully, with surface creases and tonal variation that highlight the natural properties of the material. The integrated armrests, positioned within the high side panels, contribute not only to the sculptural balance of the design but also to its functional sophistication. These features exemplify Henningsen’s ability to unite structural innovation with comfort and visual poise.

The sofa measures 150 cm in width, 65 cm in depth, and 100 cm in height, with a seat height of 43 cm (59 x 25.6 x 39.4 inches, seat height 16.9 inches). Its relatively compact footprint, combined with its formal presence, makes it well-suited for both residential and representative spaces, where architectural definition and historical character are desired.

Frits Henningsen’s contribution to Danish design lies in his steadfast adherence to quality and tradition while engaging with the modernist ethos of simplicity and function. Unlike many contemporaries, he remained actively involved in the making of his furniture, and his workshop was known for exacting standards. This sofa is a rare surviving example of his early work, revealing the depth of his craftsmanship and the timeless relevance of his design philosophy.

As an authenticated and documented piece, this sofa holds particular value within the canon of Scandinavian furniture history, embodying the artisanal roots and modern trajectory of 20th-century Danish design.