Poul Kjærholm easy chairs
This rare pair of PK-22 easy chairs, designed by the Danish modernist Poul Kjærholm in 1955, is one of the most celebrated pieces of post-war Scandinavian design. Produced by E. Kold Christensen in Denmark, these chairs exemplify Kjærholm’s signature approach of combining industrial materials with refined craftsmanship, achieving a balance between minimalism, comfort, and structural precision.
The chairs feature original black leather upholstery, which has developed a beautiful natural patina over time, reflecting decades of use and care. One of the chairs has a professionally executed repair on a seam at the back, a detail that adds to the authenticity and documented life of the pieces. The leather is supple yet durable, stretched taut over the frame in a sling-like construction that provides both ergonomic support and a visually lightweight silhouette. The seats are suspended within a brushed steel frame, whose elegant, architectural lines are a hallmark of Kjærholm’s work. The X-shaped cross-stitching on the seat and backrest adds a subtle graphic detail while reinforcing the leather for longevity.
Poul Kjærholm (1929–1980) was known for elevating steel to the level of fine furniture materials, integrating it seamlessly with organic elements such as leather, cane, and canvas. His designs embody a restrained luxury and are deeply rooted in the Danish functionalist tradition while also resonating with the clarity and precision of Bauhaus principles. The PK-22, introduced in 1956, quickly became one of Kjærholm’s most iconic pieces, admired for its sculptural quality and understated sophistication. E. Kold Christensen, Kjærholm’s long-time collaborator, was instrumental in maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship, producing pieces that are now highly collectible and represented in museums and private collections worldwide.
The design reflects mid-century Scandinavian ideals — honest materials, human-centered ergonomics, and timeless simplicity — while its enduring elegance continues to make it a sought-after classic in contemporary interiors. The combination of industrial steel and natural leather gives the chairs a refined, almost architectural presence, ideal for both residential and public spaces.
Dimensions are 63 cm wide, 63 cm deep, and 70 cm high (24.8 x 24.8 x 27.6 in), with a seat height of 32 cm (12.6 in)
Dimensions (cm) | W: 63 / D: 63 / H: 70 / Seat H: 32 |
| Producer | E. Kold Christensen |
| Color | Black |
| Decade | 1950s |
| Country | Denmark |
| Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
| Material | Leather, Steel |
| Designed in | 1955 |
| Item Number | 115037 |
Poul Kjærholm
Poul Kjærholm (1929–1980) was a Danish furniture designer celebrated for his refined minimalist aesthetic, deep respect for materials, and meticulous attention to craftsmanship. He is considered one of the leading figures of 20th-century Scandi...
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