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Description
An exceptionally rare and highly collectible “Cow Horn” Chair designed by Hans J. Wegner for cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen, Denmark. One of Wegner’s most sculptural and technically accomplished chair designs, the Cow Horn Chair exemplifies his ability to transform traditional woodworking into an expressive modern form.
The chair takes its name from its remarkable sweeping backrest, whose two projecting ends resemble the horns of a cow. Carved from solid oak, the back flows organically into the rear supports, creating a continuous sculptural line around the sitter. Particularly beautiful is the exposed joinery at the center of the backrest, where contrasting wood details emphasize the chair’s construction rather than concealing it—a hallmark of Wegner’s approach to craftsmanship.
The solid oak frame has beautifully tapered legs, rounded front posts, and carefully shaped stretchers, giving the chair a remarkably light appearance despite its substantial construction. Viewed from any angle, the Cow Horn demonstrates the extraordinary cabinetmaking for which the collaboration between Wegner and Johannes Hansen became famous.
This example retains its original Johannes Hansen metal tag underneath the chair, an important detail confirming its vintage production and provenance.
The chair is currently in the process of being professionally restored by Hobbs Modern, including restoration of the oak frame and new upholstery. Because the upholstery has not yet been completed, this is an excellent opportunity for the future owner or designer to select a leather or fabric tailored to their interior. Contact Hobbs Modern to discuss available upholstery options or COM/COL materials.
The Cow Horn Chair represents Wegner at his best: organic, functional, technically sophisticated, and unmistakably Danish. Its combination of sculptural form, exposed joinery, and exceptional cabinetmaking has made it one of the more sought-after seating designs from Wegner’s collaboration with Johannes Hansen.
Designer: Hans J. Wegner
Manufacturer: Johannes Hansen
Model: Cow Horn Chair
Origin: Denmark
Material: Solid oak; customizable upholstery
Condition: Currently undergoing professional restoration and reupholstery
Identification: Retains Johannes Hansen metal tag
Upholstery: Customizable — contact Hobbs Modern for available options
Description
An exceptionally rare and highly collectible “Cow Horn” Chair designed by Hans J. Wegner for cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen, Denmark. One of Wegner’s most sculptural and technically accomplished chair designs, the Cow Horn Chair exemplifies his ability to transform traditional woodworking into an expressive modern form.
The chair takes its name from its remarkable sweeping backrest, whose two projecting ends resemble the horns of a cow. Carved from solid oak, the back flows organically into the rear supports, creating a continuous sculptural line around the sitter. Particularly beautiful is the exposed joinery at the center of the backrest, where contrasting wood details emphasize the chair’s construction rather than concealing it—a hallmark of Wegner’s approach to craftsmanship.
The solid oak frame has beautifully tapered legs, rounded front posts, and carefully shaped stretchers, giving the chair a remarkably light appearance despite its substantial construction. Viewed from any angle, the Cow Horn demonstrates the extraordinary cabinetmaking for which the collaboration between Wegner and Johannes Hansen became famous.
This example retains its original Johannes Hansen metal tag underneath the chair, an important detail confirming its vintage production and provenance.
The chair is currently in the process of being professionally restored by Hobbs Modern, including restoration of the oak frame and new upholstery. Because the upholstery has not yet been completed, this is an excellent opportunity for the future owner or designer to select a leather or fabric tailored to their interior. Contact Hobbs Modern to discuss available upholstery options or COM/COL materials.
The Cow Horn Chair represents Wegner at his best: organic, functional, technically sophisticated, and unmistakably Danish. Its combination of sculptural form, exposed joinery, and exceptional cabinetmaking has made it one of the more sought-after seating designs from Wegner’s collaboration with Johannes Hansen.
Designer: Hans J. Wegner
Manufacturer: Johannes Hansen
Model: Cow Horn Chair
Origin: Denmark
Material: Solid oak; customizable upholstery
Condition: Currently undergoing professional restoration and reupholstery
Identification: Retains Johannes Hansen metal tag
Upholstery: Customizable — contact Hobbs Modern for available options
A seamless addition