Hans Olsen sofa

This rare model 500 four-seat sofa was designed by Hans Olsen and produced by CS Møbler in Denmark during the 1960s. It forms part of Olsen’s cohesive seating series and reflects the mid-century Scandinavian values of craftsmanship, lightness of form, and the integration of natural materials.

The frame is constructed from solid rosewood, exhibiting a rich, deep tone with fine grain structure. The design is linear and low-profile, featuring slender square legs and softly curved armrests. The sides incorporate handwoven cane panels, adding both visual lightness and a tactile contrast to the warm rosewood.

The seat and back cushions are upholstered in the original green-brown silk fabric, which has developed a warm patina over time. The cushions are divided into four equal sections and generously filled to provide comfort without compromising the clean, architectural lines of the frame. The finely woven silk retains a natural sheen, though it shows light signs of age, including minor surface wear and fading.

Hans Olsen, trained under Kaare Klint, was known for blending modernist forms with traditional cabinetmaking techniques. Model 500 showcases his skillful use of mixed materials, specifically the interplay of rosewood and cane, to achieve a balanced aesthetic and tactile quality. This four-seat version is particularly rare on the market, representing a distinctive part of Olsen’s output for CS Møbler.

The sofa measures 220 cm in width, 77 cm in depth, and 73 cm in height, with a seat height of 40 cm (approximately 86.6 x 30.3 x 28.7 inches, seat height 15.7 inches).