Ib Kofod-Larsen easy chair

The rare easy chair model Sälen, designed by Danish architect and furniture designer Ib Kofod-Larsen and produced in the 1950s by OPE Möbler in Sweden, is a celebrated example of mid-century Scandinavian craftsmanship and refined organic modernism. It combines architectural sensitivity with tactile richness, showcasing the designer’s command of form and material harmony.

The chair features a sculptural teak frame with a softly curved profile. The continuous flow from the backrest through the arm supports and into the legs gives the piece a unified, almost seamless appearance. The rear legs are subtly splayed, contributing to both stability and the dynamic stance of the chair, while the front legs rise gently to meet the arms in a manner that accentuates the structure’s lightness. The teak has matured into a warm, reddish-brown hue, with a visible, fine-grained texture and a smooth, satin finish that reflects the quality of material selection and woodworking.

The seat and backrest are upholstered in original warm brown leather, which shows a desirable vintage patina. The leather surface displays minor marks and natural tonal variation developed through use and age, adding depth and authenticity to the piece without compromising its visual integrity. The cushioning is modestly contoured, allowing the clean lines of the frame to remain dominant while still offering ergonomic comfort.

Ib Kofod-Larsen (1921–2003) was one of the leading figures in Scandinavian design during the mid-20th century. Known for his organic yet structured forms, Kofod-Larsen worked extensively in Denmark and Sweden, often producing designs for Swedish manufacturers such as OPE. His work is marked by a sensitivity to materials—particularly wood and leather—and by a mastery of proportion and line that made his seating designs both comfortable and visually compelling.

OPE Möbler (Olof Perssons Fåtöljindustri), a Swedish furniture producer active during the height of the Scandinavian modern movement, was known for high-quality craftsmanship and close collaborations with leading designers. Their production of the Sälen model represents a synthesis of Danish and Swedish design sensibilities—combining Kofod-Larsen’s sculptural minimalism with OPE’s precision and material rigor.

The chair remains in good vintage condition, with structurally sound joints and patinated leather that enhances its character. It measures 80 cm in width, 77 cm in depth, 75 cm in height, and 39 cm in seat height (approximately 31.5 by 30.3 by 29.5 inches, with a seat height of 15.4 inches). The Sälen model stands as a rare and collectible example of postwar Scandinavian design, embodying the timeless appeal of thoughtful craftsmanship and refined materials.