Hans Wegner
Hans Wegner (1914 – 2007) was a major influence on Danish furniture of the mid 20th century. Best know for his seating pieces (he designed over 500) he is also well known for his sofas and tables.
His work is known for perfectly executed joints and a deep respect for wood and its natural characteristics. His designs were minimalist with a natural softness, described as organic functionality.
He considered himself a carpenter first and a designer second believing that looks were dictated by practicality, that comfort was the most important consideration.
In 1940 he joined Arne Jacobsen to design furniture for the new town hall in Aarhus Denmark. Also in the same year he started working with master cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen, a very important collaboration which produced some of his most important work.
Although modern in design and approach Hans Wegner had a deep understanding and respect of the past. His China chair (1944) and Wishbone chair (1949) both show the influence of 17th century Ming dynasty furniture.
The Peacock chair (1947) is an adaptation of an English Windsor chair, and Papa Bear chair (1951) a modern interpretation of an English wing back chair.
Hans Wegner made Danish furniture synonymous with stylish well made design. His devotion to the finest methods of joinery mean today almost all the world’s design museums feature his work.
Please see my current mid century furniture collection.
China Chair Fritz Hansen 1944
Peacock Chair Johannes Hansen 1947
Hans Wegner Round Chair Kennedy Nixon debate 1960
Wishbone Chair Carl Hansen 1949
Papa Bear Chair A.P.Stolen 1951
