Frits Henningsen (1889–1965)

Danish master cabinetmaker and furniture designer – uncompromising quality and timeless elegance

“Keep your finger on the pulse and try to develop critical thinking by comparing past and current designs.” – Frits Henningsen

Frits Henningsen was known for his uncompromising perfectionism, vibrant personality and powerful design. Several of his works are today considered among the finest Danish furniture from the 20th century and testify to a cabinetmaker who insisted on quality in every aspect.

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Background and education

Henningsen was apprenticed early on to the renowned cabinetmaker IP Mørck on Vesterbrogade in Copenhagen. Mørck's workshop worked closely with prominent architects such as Martin Nyrop, Johan Rohde and Thorvald Bindesbøll and supplied furniture for Copenhagen City Hall, among other things. In 1925, the workshop received one of the greatest recognitions of the time when it received the Grand Prix medal at the World Exhibition in Paris for furniture designed by Johan Rohde. Among Mørck's students and employees were also later well-known cabinetmakers such as Johannes Hansen and Jacob Kjær.

Henningsen completed his apprenticeship in 1911 and subsequently worked in Germany, France and England. His European experiences gave him a broad knowledge of different style periods and techniques, which he later connected with his own modern idiom.

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Establishment and business

After returning to Copenhagen, Henningsen established his own furniture store in 1915 at Nikolaj Plads, close to his workshop in Dronningens Tværgade. The store was located in a restored 18th-century Baroque building, later next door to AC Bang's modernist building by Bent Helweg-Møller. The daily contact with customers gave him insight into their needs, and this became an important starting point for his designs.

As a member of the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers' Guild, he regularly participated in the Cabinetmakers' Guild's prestigious furniture exhibitions from 1927 to 1937, where he was recognized for his perfectionism and commitment to the art of cabinetmaking.

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Design style and philosophy

Unlike many of his contemporaries, Henningsen always designed his own furniture. He found inspiration in classic periods of style such as French Empire, Rococo and English 17th century design, but processed the impressions into new, modern and functional furniture. His designs were characterized by soft curves, functional solutions and a timeless quality, firmly rooted in Danish craftsmanship traditions.

Henningsen was also strongly inspired by Kaare Klint , who taught him at the Technical School. Their mutual competition became a driving force for renewal and reinterpretation of furniture craftsmanship. Throughout his life, Henningsen considered himself first and foremost a cabinetmaker – not a furniture architect – and only rarely allowed his designs to be produced outside his own workshop.

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Iconic furniture by Frits Henningsen

• The Wingback Chair (1935) – also known as the Wingback Chair; is considered his masterpiece and most personal design.
• FH429 Signature Chair (1954) – an elegant lounge chair in wood and leather, now reissued by Carl Hansen & Søn.
• FH419 Armchair and Footstool – classic armchair with matching footstool, known for comfort and high quality.
• FH38 Windsor Chair - A newer interpretation of the classic English Windsor chair.
  
  

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Legacy and legacy

Frits Henningsen died in 1965, but his works today stand as examples of Danish furniture art in an absolutely special class. His uncompromising approach, ability to combine classic style elements with modern functionality and his keen eye for detail have made his furniture some of the most sought-after on the market for original Danish vintage design. The Wingback Chair in particular is considered a masterpiece from the golden age of Danish design.

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Experience Frits Henningsen's original furniture at KLASSIK

At KLASSIK you will find original furniture by Frits Henningsen – from the Wingback Chair to the Signature Chair. All furniture is genuine vintage, made with uncompromising craftsmanship and with a timeless expression.

If you can't find the exact piece of furniture you're looking for, we'll be happy to help you find it. Contact us at support@klassik.dk or call 33 33 90 60 – or visit us at Bredgade 3, Copenhagen, where you can experience original works by Frits Henningsen and other big names in Danish design.