Hans Wegner easy chairs

This very rare pair of easy chairs, model JH-516, designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1951 and produced by master cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen in Denmark, represents a high point in Danish modern furniture design. As one of Wegner’s most elegant and understated creations, the JH-516 exemplifies his deep understanding of materials, proportion, and human-centered functionality.

Crafted from solid oak, the frames of the chairs display a soft, warm tone with a fine grain and smooth finish, hallmarks of the expertly selected timber and precision joinery typical of Johannes Hansen’s workshop. The wood has aged gracefully, developing a subtle patina that enhances the organic beauty of the material. The structure is visually light yet remarkably strong, a balance that defines much of Wegner’s work.

The seat and backrest are composed of finely woven natural cane, executed in the original weave pattern and preserved in remarkably good condition. The cane provides both flexibility and breathability, contributing to the comfort of the chair while adding texture and transparency to the overall form. The integrity of the weave reflects careful use and skilled craftsmanship, with only minimal wear consistent with the chairs’ age.

Formally, the JH-516 showcases Wegner’s signature design language: curved armrests that flow seamlessly into the rear supports, gently tapering legs, and a reclining backrest that invites relaxation without sacrificing elegance. The geometry is refined yet soft, avoiding sharp angles in favor of rounded transitions and sculpted profiles that follow the lines of the human body.

Dimensions are 72 cm wide, 62 cm deep, 80 cm high, with a seat height of 38.5 cm (28.3 x 24.4 x 31.5 inches; seat height 15.2 inches). These proportions contribute to the chair’s low and inviting posture, suitable for lounge environments where comfort and aesthetics are equally prioritized.

As a model produced by Johannes Hansen—Wegner’s preferred cabinetmaker for many of his early and most experimental designs—these chairs represent the highest tier of Danish craftsmanship. Each joint, contour, and material transition demonstrates a level of precision and finish that distinguishes them from mass-produced furniture of the period.

Hans Wegner (1914–2007) is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in 20th-century furniture design. The JH-516 stands out within his vast portfolio as a rare and sophisticated piece, blending architectural clarity with artisanal warmth. This pair, in oak and original cane, embodies the essence of Wegner’s design philosophy: a deep respect for natural materials, human-centered form, and long-lasting functionality. As such, they are not only superb examples of seating but also museum-worthy pieces of Scandinavian design history.