Ole Wanscher armchair

The PJ 311 “Colonial” armchair, designed by Ole Wanscher in the 1950s and produced by P. Jeppesen Møbelfabrik in Denmark, is a distinguished example of Danish modernism that highlights refined craftsmanship and lightweight construction. This chair is part of Wanscher’s celebrated Colonial series, which draws inspiration from 18th-century English and French furniture traditions, reinterpreted through a Scandinavian minimalist lens.

The frame is made from solid rosewood, prized for its rich, dark grain and robust structural qualities. The slender yet strong legs and armrests define the chair’s elegant silhouette, while gently curved arm supports and horizontal braces provide both visual balance and functional reinforcement. The seat and backrest are upholstered in patinated Niger leather, a vegetable-tanned material known for its softness and natural aging. Over time, the leather has developed a deep, warm patina that enhances the chair’s character and authenticity.

Ole Wanscher was a Danish architect and furniture designer renowned for his dedication to classical proportions and superior craftsmanship. His work frequently reimagined historical furniture forms with a modern sensibility, resulting in timeless and highly functional pieces. Introduced in the late 1940s, the Colonial series remains one of his most iconic, embodying a sophisticated blend of structural lightness and elegance.

P. Jeppesen Møbelfabrik, the manufacturer of this model, was known for precision woodworking and high standards in Danish furniture production. Their collaboration with Wanscher produced some of the finest examples of Scandinavian modernism, combining traditional joinery with contemporary design principles.

This chair is emblematic of mid-century Scandinavian design, emphasizing simplicity, craftsmanship, and the use of natural materials. It measures 63.5 cm in width, 57 cm in depth, and 87 cm in height (25 x 22.4 x 34.3 inches), with a seat height of 44 cm (17.3 inches), reflecting its balanced proportions and elegant construction.