Jacob Kjær sofa

This three-seat sofa was designed and produced by the Danish master cabinetmaker Jacob Kjær. It is a unique piece with a personal provenance, originally commissioned by and made for Kjær’s own sister, and it has remained by descent within the family. The design reflects the refined craftsmanship and restrained elegance that Kjær was celebrated for during the first half of the 20th century.

The sofa is constructed with a frame in solid rosewood, a material highly valued in Scandinavian furniture making for its durability and expressive grain. The seat and back are upholstered in natural undyed leather, secured along the edges with rows of brass rivets. The leather has developed a rich patina through decades of use, with visible marks, color variations, and two small repairs that attest to its age and history. These signs of wear contribute to the authenticity and character of the piece, reflecting the honest materiality and longevity valued in Scandinavian design.

The form of the sofa is rectilinear, with upright sides and back, subtly softened by a gently curving profile at the armrests. The open base is supported by six square-tapered legs joined by stretchers, a structural and visual detail typical of Jacob Kjær’s work, where architectural clarity and traditional cabinetmaking techniques converge. The brass nailhead trim provides a decorative element while also underlining the precise outline of the sofa.

Jacob Kjær (1896–1957) was a leading figure in Danish furniture design, trained as a cabinetmaker and renowned for his emphasis on craftsmanship and noble materials. He exhibited widely, including at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild Exhibitions, where he stood out for his understated yet sophisticated designs. His furniture often combined functional modernity with references to classical forms, reflecting a balance between innovation and tradition.

The sofa is an excellent example of Scandinavian functionalist furniture from the mid-20th century, embodying simplicity, material honesty, and fine craftsmanship. Its provenance adds to its significance, connecting it directly to the designer’s personal history.

Dimensions: 195.5 cm long, 73 cm deep, and 83 cm high, with a seat height of 40 cm (77 inches x 28.7 inches x 32.7 inches, seat height 15.7 inches).