Sale Name: 14th Annual Montana Spring Auction
LOT 12A - Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair, Danish Modern, c.1960
Description

Black lacquered beechwood armchair with woven paper cord seat in the iconic "Y-back" or "CH24" design. This quintessential Danish Modern classic, designed by Hans J. Wegner for Carl Hansen & Søn in 1949, exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian design principles of simplicity, organic form, and honest materiality.

The graceful sculptural frame showcases Wegner's masterful understanding of wood joinery, inspired by traditional Chinese Ming Dynasty chairs but executed with Danish precision and restraint. The distinctive Y-shaped back splat—giving rise to the chair's "Wishbone" nickname—provides both structural integrity and ergonomic support while creating the chair's unmistakable silhouette that has made it a design icon. The meticulously hand-woven paper cord seat, comprising approximately 120 meters of cord in a complex pattern, demonstrates the remarkable Danish tradition of seat weaving that combines durability with aesthetic warmth.

Carl Hansen & Søn has continuously produced this design since 1950, with Wegner's chair becoming one of the most recognizable symbols of Danish design worldwide and a testament to the enduring values of Scandinavian modernism. The chair bears the "Made in Denmark" stamp directly on the frame, confirming its authentic production. This example represents the highly sought-after early production period when manufacturing processes still involved significant handcraftsmanship under direct design supervision.

Condition notes: Overall excellent condition with minor surface wear to finish consistent with age and use. Paper cord seating shows even patination with no breaks or significant damage. Original maker's mark "Made in Denmark" visible on frame. Minor surface scratches on arm rails visible in image 7. Refer to the pictures and in-person inspection for condition.

Approximate Dimensions: 19 × 17 × 29 inches

Quantity: 1