-
Few chairs from the golden age of Scandinavian design carry the immediate recognition of the Sälen — the "Seal" chair — designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen for OPE of Sweden in the late 1950s. The deep, enveloping back shell curves forward and inward cradling the sitter in a posture that is at once relaxed and undeniably composed.
This example is Afromosia — African teak — a dense, straight-grained hardwood with a warmth and weight that distinguishes it from the more commonly seen versions in rosewood or teak. The frame is structurally sound, with Kofod-Larsen's characteristic sculptural carve evident throughout: the sweep of the armrests, the pointed finial tips that flare outward like a compass needle, the elegant splay of the rear legs. Beneath the seat, the original retailer's plaque reads Illums Bolighus, København — one of Copenhagen's foremost department stores — placing this chair within a chain of custody that begins at the source.
The original black leather has lived a full life. It is heavily worn and will be fully replaced as part of a professional restoration. That is where you come in.
This chair is offered as a collaborative restoration. Work with us to select your upholstery — we welcome leather in any color, natural or dyed, as well as danish wool, bouclé, or a textile of your choosing. The frame will be cleaned, assessed, and refinished as needed. What you receive is a museum-quality piece built around your vision.
Few chairs from the golden age of Scandinavian design carry the immediate recognition of the Sälen — the "Seal" chair — designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen for OPE of Sweden in the late 1950s. The deep, enveloping back shell curves forward and inward cradling the sitter in a posture that is at once relaxed and undeniably composed.
This example is Afromosia — African teak — a dense, straight-grained hardwood with a warmth and weight that distinguishes it from the more commonly seen versions in rosewood or teak. The frame is structurally sound, with Kofod-Larsen's characteristic sculptural carve evident throughout: the sweep of the armrests, the pointed finial tips that flare outward like a compass needle, the elegant splay of the rear legs. Beneath the seat, the original retailer's plaque reads Illums Bolighus, København — one of Copenhagen's foremost department stores — placing this chair within a chain of custody that begins at the source.
The original black leather has lived a full life. It is heavily worn and will be fully replaced as part of a professional restoration. That is where you come in.
This chair is offered as a collaborative restoration. Work with us to select your upholstery — we welcome leather in any color, natural or dyed, as well as danish wool, bouclé, or a textile of your choosing. The frame will be cleaned, assessed, and refinished as needed. What you receive is a museum-quality piece built around your vision.
See why our clients trust Hobbs Modern:
Wood Care
Keep the furniture in a cool, dry place
Avoid furniture's direct exposure to rain, sun or wind
Avoid placing hot objects directly on the piece to prevent undesirable marks or permanent circles.
Avoid placing objects that may cause scratches to the surface
Clean using water only in small quantities and apply it with soft, damp cloth
After damp cloth wipe with a soft, dry cloth
You can use other liquids that are especially for cleaning wood furniture. Take into account the type of wood and follow the manufacturer's instructions
Upholstery Care
Do not expose directly to sunlight to provide greater durability colors
Exchange both side pads, the seat and backrest, to obtain uniform wear
Shake the cushions regularly to remove dust and to maintain the stability of the form
Clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner in good condition
Use a textile fabric cleaning substance according to and following the manufacturer's instructions
Sell your mid-century piece