Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen easy chairs

This rare pair of easy chairs, model AX, designed by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen and produced by Fritz Hansen in Denmark in 1951, stands as a refined example of mid-century Scandinavian modern design. The chairs are crafted from teak and beech, combining the durability and warm tonal contrast of these woods into a balanced and elegant structure.

The frame features sculpted armrests and gracefully curved backrests that flow seamlessly into the seat. Notably, the design pioneered the use of laminated and molded wood, enabling a lightweight yet strong form. The seat and backrest consist of molded teak veneer, ergonomically contoured to provide comfortable support. The solid beech frame includes rounded legs and horizontal stretchers that reinforce the chair’s stability. The armrests extend outward in a continuous curve, enhancing both comfort and the fluidity of the design.

Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen were influential figures in Danish modernism, celebrated for their innovative woodworking techniques and minimalist aesthetic. Their collaboration produced furniture that harmonized functionality with sculptural elegance. Fritz Hansen, a leading Danish manufacturer, ensured these designs were executed with meticulous craftsmanship and lasting quality.

The chairs are in well-preserved condition, showing minor age-appropriate wear. The wood surfaces display a rich patina that highlights the natural grain and warmth of the materials. These chairs exemplify Scandinavian modernism’s core values of form, function, and material integrity.

The dimensions are 60.5 cm in width, 70 cm in depth, 75 cm in height, with a seat height of 39 cm (23.8 x 27.6 x 29.5 x 15.4 inches).