Ib Kofod-Larsen 'Seal' Lounge Chair in Black Leather

Ib Kofod-Larsen for OPE Möbler, Sälen' (Seal) lounge chair, model '503-799', teak, leather, Sweden 1956.

The 'Sälen' (seal) lounge chair is a design by Danish designer Ib Kofod-Larsen. The well-crafted frame of this chair is made out of a warm colored teak. It shows very nice details, wood joints and gives the chair an elegant look. The armrests provide great extra comfort and also show beautiful details; the thicker part half-way up the armrest is an example of the well-finished frame of this design. The legs are slightly tapered in both ways, creating a sculpted, airy look. The way the leather shell seems to be floating inside the wooden frame, gives the design a certain grandeur combined with lightness. This luxurious chair is interesting form every point of view.

The details and craftsmanship to be seen in  the wood work is outstanding. Ib Kofod-Larsen designed the Seal chair as part of an assignment by the Swedish furniture maker OPE Möbler. The task was for Kofod-Larsen to design a series of 'Danish' furniture with the aim of reviving Swedish postwar furniture design. 

Ib Kofod-Larsen (1921-2003) was a Danish furniture designer who studied at the Danish Royal Academy in Copenhagen. After his degree, he quickly became recognized. As he won several prices of which one from the Danish Cabinetmakers Guild. It was this price that led to the collaboration between manufacturer Faarup Møbelfabrik, and Kofod-Larsen. Later, he also collaborated with other manufacturers such as High Wycombe and Christensen & Larsen. His designs are recognized by the use of rich, durable materials such as rosewood, teak and the highest quality leather. He is known for enhancing these noble materials by means of his aesthetics, leaving the form, grain or other characteristics to speak for themselves. His most praised designs are all elegant, sculpted pieces such as the U-56 Elizabeth chair.