Ib Kofod-Larsen easy chair

This rare “Holte” easy chair exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian craftsmanship, conceived in the 1950s by Danish architect and furniture designer Ib Kofod-Larsen and produced by OPE Möbler in Jönköping, Sweden. Its frame is fashioned from solid teak, displaying a warm reddish-brown hue that deepens with age. The wood’s subtle grain patterns lend a gentle visual texture, while the overall low-slung profile evokes a sense of relaxed comfort.

The chair’s sculptural silhouette is defined by pronounced organic lines and an architectural sensibility. The armrests extend outward in softly faceted contours, seamlessly flowing into slender, tapered legs and horizontal stretchers. The backrest reclines at a slight angle, curving to support the lumbar region, while the seat appears to float within the frame, its suspension achieved through discreet joinery and hidden brackets that afford just enough give for ergonomic seating.

Newly reupholstered in smooth, matte black leather, the seat and backrest uphold the original design ethos of restrained elegance. The deep jet tone of the leather contrasts crisply with the teak, emphasizing the chair’s crisp lines and refined proportions. The upholstery has been executed with precision, with tight stitching and uniform tension ensuring that the leather remains taut without altering the chair’s intended silhouette.

Ib Kofod-Larsen was a prominent figure in postwar Danish design, celebrated for his commitment to clean lines, material integrity, and user comfort. Although much of his work originated in Denmark, he forged strong partnerships with Swedish manufacturers, including OPE Möbler, to explore variations in form and finish. The “Holte” model reflects his ability to blend functional rigor with sculptural grace.

OPE Möbler, active in the first half of the 20th century, earned a reputation for high-quality modern furniture produced in collaboration with leading Scandinavian designers. Based in Jönköping, the firm combined industrial techniques with artisanal woodworking, ensuring each piece met stringent standards of durability and finish. The production of the “Holte” easy chair illustrates OPE’s dedication to elegant simplicity and structural integrity.

This particular example is in excellent vintage condition. The teak frame remains robust, with no visible splits or loose joints, and the newly restored leather shows no signs of wear or discoloration. Its dimensions are 76 cm in width, 65 cm in depth, and 68 cm in height, with a seat height of 38 cm—equivalent to approximately 29.9 by 25.6 by 26.8 inches overall, and a 15-inch seat height.