Karl-Erik Ekselius sofa
This rare three-seat sofa was designed by Karl-Erik Ekselius and produced by JOC in Sweden during the 1960s. It embodies Scandinavian modernism through a careful balance of restrained architectural form, natural materials, and skilled upholstery. The design reflects the era’s emphasis on functionality paired with understated elegance.
The sofa’s structure is anchored by a solid teak base, featuring an exposed front rail and cylindrical legs. The wood exhibits a warm reddish-brown tone with a matte finish, showing light patina and minimal signs of wear that highlight its age without detracting from its integrity. This linear wooden base provides a subtle contrast to the fully upholstered seat and backrest, which are clad in the original black leather. The leather is deep in color with a slight gloss and bears natural creases and wear consistent with age, including minor scuffing and subtle fading in areas subject to frequent contact.
The upholstery is characterized by a tight, rectilinear construction with a deeply tufted backrest that features a regular grid of buttons. This tufting adds both visual depth and tactile texture, enhancing the sofa’s architectural presence. The seat cushions are loose and divided into three equal sections, fitting securely within the frame. Straight, flat armrests reinforce the design’s geometric clarity and functional stance, providing a cohesive and balanced profile.
Karl-Erik Ekselius was a notable figure in Swedish postwar design, recognized for his elegant and practical seating that often merged traditional cabinetmaking techniques with modernist minimalism. His work for JOC was widely exported and remains appreciated for its durable craftsmanship and subtle luxury.
This sofa is in very good vintage condition, structurally sound with all original materials preserved. The leather shows an even patina without any repairs or alterations, and the teak frame is free from cracks or significant blemishes. The dimensions are 235 cm wide, 80 cm deep, and 73 cm high, with a seat height of 40 cm, approximately 92.5 inches wide, 31.5 inches deep, 28.7 inches high, and a seat height of 15.7 inches.
Dimensions (cm) | W: 235 / D: 80 / H: 73 / Seat H: 40 |
Producer | J.O. Carlssons Möbelindustri (JOC Möbel AB) |
Color | Black |
Decade | 1960s |
Country | Sweden |
Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
Material | Leather, Teak |
Designed in | 1960s |
Item Number | 128800 |
Karl-Erik Ekselius