Ole Wanscher easy chairs

This pair of easy chairs was designed by Danish architect and furniture designer Ole Wanscher and produced by the renowned cabinetmaker A.J. Iversen in Denmark. The chairs represent a refined approach to mid-20th-century Scandinavian design, characterized by disciplined proportions, artisanal detailing, and high-quality materials. Wanscher’s work is often noted for its synthesis of classical influences and modernist clarity, which is clearly evident in the design of these chairs.

The frames are made from richly grained rosewood, a material prized for both its strength and visual depth. The wood has been carefully polished, enhancing the inherent warmth and intricate figuring of the rosewood veneer. The structural integrity of the chairs is excellent, with joinery and construction techniques indicative of the traditional cabinetmaking standards upheld by A.J. Iversen’s workshop. The form includes subtly curved armrests and tapering legs, reflecting Wanscher’s restrained yet expressive aesthetic.

The upholstery is original and filled with horsehair, a traditional material choice valued for its resilience and breathability. The fabric, while showing mild signs of wear in areas subject to regular contact, remains intact with no notable damage. This contributes to the authenticity and preservation value of the chairs as historical design objects.

Ole Wanscher (1903–1985) was a leading figure of the Danish modern movement. Educated under Kaare Klint, he embraced a human-centered approach to furniture design, valuing comfort, craftsmanship, and proportion. His collaboration with A.J. Iversen, one of Denmark’s most respected cabinetmakers, resulted in a number of iconic designs that bridged the classical and modern worlds.

The dimensions of each chair are 62 cm wide, 67 cm deep, 90 cm high, with a seat height of 45 cm. In imperial measurements, this equates to approximately 24.4 inches wide, 26.4 inches deep, 35.4 inches high, and a seat height of 17.7 inches.