Knud Færch armchairs

This is a rare and complete set of six model 358 armchairs designed by Knud Færch and produced by Slagelse Møbelværk in Denmark in 1958. The chairs are a significant example of Danish mid-century modern design, emphasizing clarity of form, fine material usage, and expert joinery.

Each chair is constructed with a solid rosewood frame, displaying a rich and expressive grain pattern characteristic of high-quality Brazilian rosewood used in Danish cabinetmaking of the 1950s and 1960s. The wood has been carefully shaped and finished with smooth transitions between components, particularly at the armrest junctions and leg connections, where the refined joinery enhances the sculptural profile of the frame.

The seats and backrests are upholstered in black leather. The leather shows age-appropriate signs of wear, including some surface dryness and light cracking, consistent with vintage use. Despite this, the material retains a strong presence and contributes to the overall integrity of the set. The upholstery follows the chair’s ergonomic lines closely, ensuring comfort while maintaining a restrained, tailored silhouette.

Brass hardware is subtly incorporated into the construction, most notably visible in the recessed fasteners at the backrest joint. These details add a refined industrial element while supporting the overall visual lightness and modernist intent of the design. The chairs are designed with slightly reclined backs and supportive seats, balanced on angular legs that taper subtly to the floor, creating a confident yet understated posture.

Knud Færch was an influential Danish furniture designer whose work explored the harmony between structure and organic form. He is particularly noted for his focus on the armchair as a sculptural and functional object, and model 358 is among his most recognized contributions. His designs are celebrated for their clarity, minimalism, and material sophistication.

Slagelse Møbelværk, the manufacturer, was a well-regarded Danish furniture producer known for collaborations with some of Denmark’s most talented mid-century designers. Their workshop was distinguished by meticulous craftsmanship and the use of premium hardwoods, positioning them at the center of the Scandinavian design movement during its peak decades.

Each chair measures 63 cm in width, 58 cm in depth, 80 cm in height, with a seat height of 44 cm (24.8 x 22.8 x 31.5 in, seat height 17.3 in).