Finn Juhl Model 45 Easy Chair (NV-45)
Seating (Armchair / Accent Lounge Chair) · Danish Modern / Mid-Century Modern (1940s design, late 20th to 21st century production) · Designed by Finn Juhl in 1945; manufactured by Niels Vodder (vintage) or House of Finn Juhl / Onecollection (authorized modern re-edition)
Type
Seating (Armchair / Accent Lounge Chair)
Style Period
Danish Modern / Mid-Century Modern (1940s design, late 20th to 21st century production)
Material
Solid teak wood frame, high-grade textured bouclé upholstery fabric, inner foam/padding, brass accent details
Age Estimate
Design originated in 1945; this specific piece appears to be a high-end contemporary re-edition (circa 2010s-2020s)
Dimensions
Height: 33 inches (84 cm), Width: 29.5 inches (75 cm), Depth: 31 inches (79 cm); typical generous mid-century lounge proportions
Origin
Denmark (Danish Design Heritage)
Designer/Maker
Designed by Finn Juhl in 1945; manufactured by Niels Vodder (vintage) or House of Finn Juhl / Onecollection (authorized modern re-edition)
Value Estimate
Authorized modern production: $9,000 - $14,000; Original vintage 1940s-1950s Niels Vodder executions can fetch $25,000 - $60,000+ at major design auctions.
Description
Widely regarded as the 'mother of all modern chairs,' the Finn Juhl Model 45 revolutionized furniture design by completely separating the upholstered seating elements from the wooden carrying frame. The fluid, organic teak frame cradles a floating upholstered back and seat, creating a sense of lightness and architectural grace that defines high Scandinavian design.
Key Features
Floating seat and back structure separated from frame; sculpted wing-like paddle armrests; slender tapered legs; warm oil-finished teak frame.
Color & Finish
Rich warm amber-brown natural teak wood with a low-sheen hand-rubbed oil finish; vibrant marigold orange textured bouclé upholstery
Construction Method
Master artisan woodworking featuring an ingenious floating seat shell suspended independently within an organic sculpted wooden frame
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Exquisite sculpted joinery with fluid organic transitions, seamless mortise-and-tenon construction, and hand-carved sculptural armrest paddle pads
Wood Grain & Species
Solid Teak (Tectona grandis) showing fine, straight to slightly wavy dark grain contrast with a smooth satin tactile quality
Surface Treatment
Fine sanding with a natural oiled finish preserving wood breathability; hand-sculpted contours along all wooden structural members
Upholstery Details
Re-upholstered in premium textured orange bouclé yarn; tight, smooth fitted upholstery over ergonomic supportive padding with a decorative graphic accent pillow
Hardware & Fittings
Subtle brass mounting screws and metallic connectors integrating the floating back shell to the upright rear frame posts
Origin & Provenance
Denmark (Danish Design Heritage)
Condition Notes
Excellent contemporary condition. Frame exhibits no visible damage, scratches, or joint looseness; upholstery is pristine with vibrant color and rich texture.
Interesting Facts
When Finn Juhl unveiled the Model 45 at the Cabinetmakers' Guild Exhibition in Copenhagen in 1945, it broke traditional cabinetmaking rules by treating the wood dynamically like sculpture rather than static joinery.
Cultural Significance
A masterpiece of 20th-century design history, the Model 45 established Denmark as an international leader in modern design and sits in major museum collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Similar Pieces
Hans Wegner Papa Bear Chair, Ib Kofod-Larsen Seal Chair, and Z-chair designs by Kai Kristiansen; distinguished by Juhl's signature 'floating' frame separation.
Care & Maintenance
Maintain teak frame with periodic applications of natural teak oil or Danish oil; vacuum bouclé fabric gently using an upholstery attachment; protect from direct sunlight.
Value Estimate
Authorized modern production: $9,000 - $14,000; Original vintage 1940s-1950s Niels Vodder executions can fetch $25,000 - $60,000+ at major design auctions.
Sustainability Notes
Solid wood construction designed for multi-generational longevity and repairability; natural timber and timeless design prevent waste.