Vilhelm Lauritzen chairs
This rare set of musician chairs was designed by Vilhelm Lauritzen in 1942 for the National Broadcasting House in Copenhagen, Denmark. Crafted from solid oak, the chairs combine functionality and refined craftsmanship, featuring brass fittings and niger leather upholstery. Their design includes adjustable seats and backrests, allowing musicians to tailor ergonomic support to their specific needs.
The frames are constructed from sculpted oak, with elegantly curved legs and stretchers that enhance both stability and visual appeal. The backrests comprise two padded, oval-shaped leather cushions mounted on brass brackets, enabling adjustments in both height and angle. The seats are upholstered in aged niger leather, a durable and high-quality material that has developed a rich patina over time. The legs taper slightly and are capped with brass fittings, adding subtle detail and durability.
Vilhelm Lauritzen (1894–1984) was a leading Danish architect and designer, renowned for his contributions to functionalist architecture and Scandinavian modernism. His design philosophy emphasized clean lines, organic materials, and practical solutions. Lauritzen’s furniture was often custom-designed for architectural projects, including the National Broadcasting House, where these chairs originally served orchestra musicians.
These chairs exemplify Lauritzen’s skill in merging craftsmanship, utility, and aesthetic clarity. They remain in very good vintage condition, showing minor wear on the leather and brass consistent with their age and functional use.
Each chair measures approximately 40 cm in width, 51 cm in depth, and 81.5 cm in height (15.7 x 20.1 x 32.1 inches), with a seat height of 41 cm (16.1 inches).
Dimensions (cm) | W: 40 / D: 51 / H: 81.5 / Seat H: 41 |
Decade | 1940s |
Country | Denmark |
Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
Material | Brass, Leather, Oak |
Designed in | 1942 |
Item Number | 145429 |
Vilhelm Lauritzen