Dansk Møbelkunst celebrates the centenary of Hans J. Wegner.


Must-See Wegner Show in Paris

This year marks 100 years since the birth of one of Denmark's greatest designers, Hans J. Wegner. To celebrate this milestone in design history, the Danish specialists at Copenhagen- and Paris-based gallery Dansk Møbelkunst are planning a solo exhibition filled with exquisite, vintage exemplars from Wegner's 50-year-long, rich, and influential career. Highlights will include his most iconic pieces—such as The Round Chair, a.k.a. "The Chair," and The Valet Chair, both from the early postwar era—as well as lesser known masterpieces.

Valet Chair, designed 1953, Made by Johannes Hansen © Dansk Møbelkunst Valet Chair, designed 1953, Made by Johannes Hansen © Dansk Møbelkunst

We reached out to Dorte Slot from Dansk to learn more about why Wegner's work remains so collectible today—in some cases, 60-plus years after it was originally designed. Here's what she had to say:

"Wegner is a unique character in the history of modern design. He was extremely gifted and one of the most prolific designers of his time—diligent and extraordinarily hard-working. His work is characterized by a modern timelessness and high-quality craftsmanship. So it lasts for generations."

Folding Chairs, designed 1949, Made by Johannes Hansen © Dansk Møbelkunst Folding Chairs, designed 1949, Made by Johannes Hansen © Dansk Møbelkunst

She added:

"This multifaceted genius remains fascinating today, because he was one of the few Danish furniture designers capable of making his own furniture, and his skills as a craftsman added to the superb quality of his designs. He had an instinctive feeling for the possibilities and limitations of the materials, and his work covers a wide span—from his simple, elegant armchairs to the sleekly upholstered Ox Chair and the spectacular Flag Halyard Chair.

Fruit Dish, designed 1956, Made by Johannes Hansen © Dansk Møbelkunst Fruit Dish, designed 1956, Made by Johannes Hansen © Dansk Møbelkunst

Sawbench Chairs, designed 1951, Made by Carl Hansen & Son, © Dansk Møbelkunst Sawbench Chairs, designed 1951, Made by Carl Hansen & Son, © Dansk Møbelkunst

 

Hans J. Wegner opens with a reception September 11th, and continues until October 18th, 2014.

Dansk Møbelkunst Gallery

53 bis, Quai des Grands Augustins

75006 Paris

www.dmk.dk