Pair of “Plexus” Oak and Cane Easy Chairs by Illum Wikkelsø, Denmark circa 1970s
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Description
Danish furniture designer Illum Wikkelsø believed that furniture should be built to last, to indulge the body and to please the eye. He belonged to a group of designers who represented the “Golden Age” of Danish modern design during the mid-20th century era.
In a world increasingly filled with decoration, the Danish modern style chose to focus on designs that were simple yet meaningful. This simplicity wasn’t about lacking elements but about carefully choosing each one to have purpose and function, and these chairs exemplify that. Wikkelsø generally worked with clean lines, but also had a strong sense of organic expression and was deeply inspired by nature – especially the Danish landscape. He aimed to capture the beauty he saw in the environment around him in his furniture designs. In the case of these chairs, the frame is crafted from oak, an especially durable hardwood that is extremely multi-faceted with a beautiful grain. Oak became an important material in the Danish mid-century period. Furthermore, the precision of the structure and the woven cane is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. The cane elements of the frame are woven in a tight, visually pleasing pattern. It is clear this model is entirely based on Wikkelsø’s artisanship, which hails from a generation of cabinetmakers, upholsterers and furniture producers established before the 1950s. This heritage shines through these chairs with a creative design that doesn’t compromise on quality. Extremely modest and confident at the same time is how this pair of chairs can be best described, showing great craftsmanship skill, and making them a lovely addition to any interior.
The Danish modern movement, rooted in the mid-20th century, was not a fleeting trend but a lasting shift in design philosophy. Its principles, grounded in simplicity, functionality, and a deep appreciation for natural elements, have not only withstood the test of time but have become foundational for many contemporary design approaches.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W x 26.38 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 18.11 in; Arm height 25.20 in
74 cm W x 67 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 46 cm; Arm height 64 cm
Shipping:
These chairs will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the items in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.
IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU. -
More Information
Documentation: Documented elsewhere (similar item) Origin: Denmark Period: 1950-1979 Materials: Fabric, Wood, Cane Condition: Good. In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information. Creation Date: ca 1970s Number of Pieces: 2-3 Styles / Movements: Modern, Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern Dealer Reference #: 20200476 Incollect Reference #: 764779 -
Dimensions
W. 29.13 in; H. 29.13 in; D. 26.38 in; W. 74 cm; H. 74 cm; D. 67 cm; Seat H. 17.32 in; Arm H. 25.2 in; Seat H. 44 cm; Arm H. 64 cm;
Message from Seller:
Located in Utrecht, The Netherlands, H. Gallery specializes in modern and contemporary design with a strong focus on Brazil and Scandinavia. The gallery strives to preserve and promote especially Brazil's rich design heritage and curates a select group of contemporary artists. Meticulous research, ie getting in contact with the original designers, producers, their heirs, and retrieving and indexing old catalogues and magazines is at the heart of its activities. All works presented excel in great