Ole Wanscher dining chairs

This rare set of eight dining chairs was designed by Danish architect and designer Ole Wanscher in 1942 and produced by the master cabinetmaker A.J. Iversen, one of the most respected names in Danish furniture craftsmanship during the mid-20th century. Originally presented at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild Exhibition of the same year, the chairs reflect Wanscher’s deeply rooted interest in classical forms, translated through a modern Scandinavian lens.

The chairs are constructed in solid rosewood, a material prized for its density, durability, and rich tonal variation. The visible wood grain adds warmth and visual depth to the otherwise restrained silhouette. Each chair features a distinctive crisscross backrest pattern composed of finely joined rosewood members, demonstrating precision handcraftsmanship and an understanding of structural integrity combined with decorative effect.

The seats are upholstered in black leather, offering a refined, tactile surface that contrasts subtly with the darker hues and varied figuring of the rosewood. The upholstery is original or restored in a manner consistent with the period, preserving the character of the chairs while ensuring functionality and comfort.

Ole Wanscher (1903–1985), a student of Kaare Klint, was a central figure in the Danish Modern movement. His approach was deeply academic yet refined, often reinterpreting historical furniture types with updated proportions and structural clarity. Wanscher’s collaborations with A.J. Iversen resulted in some of the most finely executed works of his career, typically produced in limited numbers for exhibitions and private commissions. His furniture is recognized for its poise, architectural elegance, and subtle sophistication.

A.J. Iversen was among the leading cabinetmakers of the era, known for his close collaborations with designers and meticulous production standards. Works by Iversen are typically characterized by their superior joinery, material selection, and consistency of finish, aligning closely with the high ideals of the Cabinetmakers’ Guild exhibitions.

The set remains in very good original condition, with minor wear consistent with age and use. Each chair measures 52.5 cm in width, 51 cm in depth, 84 cm in height, and 44 cm in seat height, which converts to approximately 20.7 inches wide, 20.1 inches deep, 33.1 inches high, and 17.3 inches in seat height.