Henning Kjærnulf dining chairs

This is a set of six dining chairs designed by Henning Kjærnulf and produced by cabinetmaker Bruno Hansen in Denmark during the 1960s.

The chairs are crafted in solid teak with upholstered seats in black leather, demonstrating a restrained and elegant expression typical of Danish modern design of the period. The backrest is defined by a wide, softly curved horizontal support with subtly contoured edges, connected to the seat by two vertically tapering rear legs. The form of the backrest is sculptural and ergonomic, offering lumbar support while contributing to the visual lightness of the design. The rounded edges and clean transitions between elements reflect precise cabinetmaking techniques. The front legs are cylindrical and subtly tapered, connected to the frame by a horizontal stretcher that adds structural integrity. The seat is slightly concave and upholstered in smooth black leather, framed by the surrounding teak structure. The materials create a contrast between the warm reddish-brown tones of the teak and the deep matte black of the leather.

The leather remains taut and clean, with minimal signs of wear, and the wood surfaces display a uniform patina with only minor traces of use consistent with age.

Henning Kjærnulf was active as a furniture designer during the mid-20th century and is known for his work that bridges traditional Danish woodworking with the modernist sensibility emerging during the postwar years. His collaboration with Bruno Hansen resulted in a number of well-crafted designs emphasizing natural materials, sculpted forms, and subtle detailing. Bruno Hansen’s workshop was respected for producing high-quality furniture in small batches, often marked by attention to joinery and finish.

Each chair measures 51 cm in width, 46 cm in depth, and 77 cm in height (20.1 x 18.1 x 30.3 inches), with a seat height of 45 cm (17.7 inches).