From a limited edition of up to 25.
Molded aluminium, painted steel, rubber.
History:
In 1953, Poul Kjærholm entered a competition organised by the Danish Upholsterers’ Guild, aimed at designing new types of upholstered chairs. In collaboration with upholsterer Chris Sørensen, he created two prototypes constructed from bent aluminium with padded upholstery in primary colours—referencing Gerrit Rietveld’s wooden designs. They won first prize, marking a significant step in Kjærholm’s technical evolution. The use of bolted joints was his first application of industrial fittings in furniture construction.
Following this success, Kjærholm and Sørensen developed a series of experimental pieces. The initial design—a one-legged chair with a laminated wood seat and split spring-steel stem—remained a concept. From this, he developed a three-legged chair with a moulded aluminium shell, combining structural efficiency with an innovative production method. Variants were made in aluminium, steel wire, and reinforced concrete. Despite the ingenuity, none entered full production. Fewer than 25 aluminium examples were made in late 1953, some shown at the Danish Guild Exhibition in 1954. The partnership soon ended, with Sørensen later claiming the chairs were prototypes, not subject to royalties, and too unconventional to attract commercial interest.
Literature:
Sheridan, Michael, 'Poul Kjærholm Møbelarkitekt', Louisiana (Denmark) 2006, p. 48-49, 200.
Harlang, Christoffer, Helmer-Petersen, Kelf, Kjaerholm, Kristine, 'Poul Kjaerholm', Denmark (Arkitektens Forlag) 1999, p. 174.
Ref: 2412042
| H | 64.5cm/25.4" |
| W | 63.5cm/25.0" |
| D | 68cm/26.8" |
| Seat height | 41.5cm/16.3" |
H. 64.5cm/25.4"
W. 63.5cm/25.0"
D. 68cm/26.8"
Seat height 41.5cm/16.3"