Hans Wegner easy chairs

This rare pair of easy chairs, model CH25, was designed by Hans J. Wegner and produced by Carl Hansen & Søn in Denmark during the 1950s. The CH25 chair was one of Wegner’s early designs for Carl Hansen, introduced in 1950, and it has since become an iconic piece in mid-century Danish furniture. Known for its structural clarity, material honesty, and balanced proportions, the CH25 embodies Wegner’s ability to distill design to its essential elements while maintaining warmth and sculptural beauty.

The chairs are crafted from soaped oak, a traditional Danish finish that enhances the natural pale tone and open grain of the wood. The soaping process leaves the surface matte and tactile, contributing to the chair’s rustic, organic feel. The seat and backrest are hand-woven with natural hemp cord, using over 400 meters of material per chair. The double-woven pattern is distinctive, providing both durability and comfort. The craftsmanship of the weaving and joinery is evident throughout the frame, especially in the rounded armrests and the angled rear legs. These elements not only offer structural support but also contribute to the visual tension of the piece.

The form of the chairs is low and wide, emphasizing comfort and relaxation. The front legs are straight and subtly tapered, while the rear legs splay outward, providing a stable and slightly reclined posture. The deep seat and gently angled backrest support the body ergonomically without the need for additional padding or upholstery. This approach aligns with the Danish modern ideal of functional purity, where form and comfort are integrated seamlessly.

Produced by Carl Hansen & Søn, a family-run company with a long-standing collaboration with Wegner, the CH25 was among the first pieces to be developed for mass production without compromising on artisanal standards. The design has remained in continuous production, but early examples like this pair are distinguished by their aged oak patina and the subtle tonal variations in the hemp weave, which have developed naturally over time.

The dimensions of each chair are 70 cm in width, 75 cm in depth, and 72 cm in height, with a seat height of 37 cm (approximately 27.6 x 29.5 x 28.3 inches, seat height 14.6 inches). The pair is in very good vintage condition, with minor wear to the oak and gentle aging to the hemp weave, which only adds to the charm and authenticity of these exceptional pieces.