Hans Wegner easy chair

This is the iconic AP-19 easy chair, more commonly referred to as the “Papa Bear Chair” designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1951 and produced by the Danish cabinetmaker A.P. Stolen. A celebrated masterpiece of Danish mid-century design, this model exemplifies the organic modernism that Wegner brought to international attention through his sculptural approach to seating and uncompromising craftsmanship.

The chair is fully upholstered in a warm, textured bouclé fabric in a natural beige tone. The fabric’s tactile character provides a visually rich surface and enhances the inviting, cocoon-like form of the seat. Its signature wingback silhouette and protruding armrests—often likened to welcoming “paws”—give the chair a figurative and anthropomorphic quality that helped define its nickname. The armrest tips are sculpted in solid teak, shaped with soft contours and smoothly integrated into the upholstered form, providing both aesthetic contrast and practical durability. The four conically tapered teak legs offer a solid and elegant structural base, angled slightly to enhance stability and visual poise.

Hans J. Wegner (1914–2007) was a leading figure in Danish modern design, known for his belief in functional beauty, honest materials, and meticulous joinery. His background as a cabinetmaker and architect informed his approach to furniture design, with the Papa Bear chair representing one of his most ambitious and expressive creations. The AP-19 was part of Wegner’s transition from structural minimalism to a more sculptural and comfort-oriented phase, balancing ergonomics with formal elegance.

Produced by A.P. Stolen, a small yet influential Danish workshop active during the 1950s and 1960s, the Papa Bear chair became one of their most prominent and successful commissions. The firm was responsible for realizing Wegner’s vision with high-quality joinery and upholstery, often working closely with the designer to maintain his rigorous standards.

The chair measures 90 cm wide, 90 cm deep, and 99 cm high (35.4 x 35.4 x 39 inches), with a seat height of 39 cm (15.4 inches). It is in excellent condition, with subtle signs of wear consistent with careful use. The fabric presents clean lines and tension, while the wood retains a rich, even patina. This piece represents one of the most refined examples of Danish seating design—an enduring classic that continues to define the legacy of Scandinavian craftsmanship.