Ole Wanscher easy chairs

This rare set of four easy chairs, designed by Ole Wanscher and produced in the 1940s by master cabinetmaker A.J. Iversen, is an exceptional representation of early Danish Modernism—where neoclassical restraint, artisanal craftsmanship, and functional clarity converge into timeless design.

The chairs are constructed from richly grained rosewood, a luxurious and visually dynamic hardwood that was a hallmark of high-end Danish furniture from this period. The wood displays deep, variegated tones and organic patterns, enhanced by a time-earned patina that reinforces the natural richness of the material. Every joint and transition in the frame reflects the meticulous skill of Iversen’s cabinetmaking workshop, one of the most respected in mid-20th-century Denmark.

The design is architecturally composed yet gently sculptural. The rear legs taper upward to form the continuous backrest, while the armrests curve outward with graceful precision before meeting the frame—achieving both comfort and elegance. These fluid lines embody Wanscher’s classical sensibility, rooted in traditional forms yet interpreted through a distinctly modern lens.

The original black leather upholstery remains intact across all four chairs. Now beautifully aged, the leather has developed a warm, lived-in patina with subtle creases and natural wear, testifying to the authenticity and longevity of the set. The seats and backs retain their structure, providing supportive yet comfortable seating. The aged leather complements the rosewood exquisitely, offering a compelling visual and textural contrast.

Dimensions per chair:

• Width: 62 cm
• Depth: 67 cm
• Height: 90 cm
• Seat Height: 45 cm
  (Approximately 24.4 x 26.4 x 35.4 inches; seat height 17.7 inches)

Ole Wanscher (1903–1985), one of Denmark’s most revered furniture designers, was known for merging classical refinement with the emerging modernist ethos of the mid-century. His long-standing collaboration with A.J. Iversen produced some of the finest examples of Danish furniture, marked by precise joinery, noble materials, and elegant proportions.