Ib Kofod-Larsen easy chair

This very rare easy chair and stool set, model U56, also known as the Elizabeth chair, was designed in 1956 by Ib Kofod-Larsen and produced by the distinguished Danish cabinetmaker Christensen & Larsen. A celebrated piece of mid-century Scandinavian design, the set is recognized not only for its refined aesthetics and comfort but also for its historical significance—the model gained its name after Queen Elizabeth II acquired a pair during a state visit to Denmark.

The chair and stool are crafted from solid rosewood, chosen for its richly colored grain and depth of tone. The wood exhibits a deep, warm brown hue with pronounced natural variation, typical of premium rosewood used in Danish cabinetry of the 1950s. The frames are elegantly constructed with smooth, tapered lines and expertly executed joinery. The design emphasizes organic curvature and understated structural detail, qualities that exemplify Kofod-Larsen’s sensitivity to material and form.

The chair features a wide, gently reclining backrest with a distinctively sloped profile, flanked by softly curved armrests that taper fluidly into the frame. The seat is generously proportioned and comfortably angled, ensuring both support and repose. The matching stool mirrors the chair’s design language with rounded contours and a low, stable stance, offering a natural extension for leg support or use as an additional seat.

Both pieces are upholstered in a deep red-brown leather that complements the warmth of the rosewood. The leather is in excellent vintage condition, showing only light wear and subtle creasing consistent with age and use. The surface retains its suppleness and sheen, contributing to the overall richness of the set without detracting from its authenticity.

The rosewood frames are equally well preserved, displaying a soft, aged patina that enhances the visual depth and texture of the wood. All structural elements are intact and stable, and the craftsmanship is of the highest quality, reflecting Christensen & Larsen’s reputation for precision and hand-finished detailing.

Ib Kofod-Larsen (1921–2003) was one of the most important figures of Danish modernism, known for his mastery in blending comfort, proportion, and sculptural form. The Elizabeth chair represents one of his most iconic designs—graceful, functional, and enduringly relevant.

Dimensions:

• Chair: 79 cm high, 74 cm wide, 71 cm deep, with a seat height of 35 cm
  (approximately 31.1 inches high, 29.1 inches wide, 28 inches deep, 13.8 inches seat height)

• Stool: 57 cm wide, 45 cm deep, 38 cm high
  (approximately 22.4 inches wide, 17.7 inches deep, 15 inches high)

This set remains a highly sought-after collector’s piece, exemplifying the elegance, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal of mid-century Danish design.