Torbjørn Afdal dining chairs

This set of twelve high-back dining chairs, model Darby, was designed by Torbjørn Afdal and produced by Nesjestranda Møbelfabrik in Norway during the 1950s. The frames are crafted from rosewood, a tropical hardwood known for its rich grain patterns and deep, warm tones. The construction features clean lines with subtly curved backrests and tapered legs, reflecting the functional and elegant aesthetics of Scandinavian mid-century design. The chairs retain their original black leather upholstery, which is stretched over a padded seat and backrest, providing both visual contrast and comfort. The leather exhibits a smooth surface with a slight sheen, enhancing the sophisticated character of the design. The frame joints are finely detailed, with doweled connections and carefully sculpted edges, emphasizing the craftsmanship of Norwegian furniture makers during the period.

Torbjørn Afdal was one of Norway’s leading mid-century designers, known for his precision and refined approach to furniture making. His work often balanced functional minimalism with sculptural elegance, characteristics evident in the Darby model.

Nesjestranda Møbelfabrik, the manufacturer, was a well-regarded Norwegian furniture producer that specialized in high-quality wood craftsmanship, often working with premium materials like rosewood and teak. These chairs are representative of the mid-century Scandinavian style, which emphasized natural materials, durability, and understated luxury.

The proportions are well-balanced, with a seat height of 45 cm (17.7 inches), an overall width of 47.5 cm (18.7 inches), a depth of 57 cm (22.4 inches), and a total height of 95 cm (37.4 inches).