Knud Færch cowhorn armchair

A rare and beautifully balanced chair, model SM 521 — known as the “Cowhorn Chair” — designed by Knud Færch and produced by Slagelse Møbelfabrik in Denmark in 1969. This piece captures the refined sculptural sensibility of Danish modern design at its peak, where organic form, tactile materiality, and impeccable craftsmanship come together with effortless grace.

Crafted in oak and teak with a seat in natural leather, the chair showcases Færch’s mastery of proportion and joinery. The distinctive curved backrest, elegantly shaped like a pair of horns, provides both visual character and ergonomic support, inviting a natural sitting posture. The transitions between the components are seamless, with soft contours that highlight the material’s inherent beauty — every curve and edge is hand-finished to achieve a smooth, fluid line.

The leather seat, aged with a rich patina, complements the warmth of the wood and enhances the chair’s organic presence. The interplay between oak and teak — two contrasting yet harmonizing woods — reflects Færch’s sensitivity to tone and texture, creating a visual rhythm that feels both grounded and sophisticated.

Knud Færch, a student of Finn Juhl, inherited the Danish modern tradition of sculptural simplicity and human-centered design. The SM 521 model remains one of his most celebrated works, exemplifying the Danish belief that functional furniture should also possess a poetic, timeless quality.

This example is in good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear and a well-preserved patina.

Dimensions are 57 cm wide, 51 cm deep, and 72.5 cm high, with a seat height of 45 cm (22.4 x 20.1 x 28.5 in; SH 17.7 in)