The story behind
Arne Jacobsen (1902–1971) holds a central position in Danish design and architectural history. As both an architect and a designer, he consistently worked with a holistic approach, where furniture was developed as an integrated part of the spaces it was meant to inhabit. His approach was analytical and uncompromising, and each design was shaped with a focus on function, proportions, and industrial production.
The Ant and the Series 7 chair, in particular, have achieved iconic status and stand today as two of the most recognizable chairs in Danish design. They have been used in private homes, restaurants, offices, and public institutions worldwide and have been in continuous production for decades. Along with a number of other chairs, they form the core of Arne Jacobsen's furniture design and bear witness to his ability to create furniture that combines practical usability with a clear and timeless design language.
Design and materials
Arne Jacobsen chairs are characterized by a precise and consistent design language, where the chair is reduced to its fundamental elements. Many models are built around pressure-molded shells, which give the chairs their characteristic, organic forms and simultaneously enable high-quality industrial manufacturing. The construction and frame are often light and elegant, contributing to a balanced and calm expression.
The chairs are available in a wide range of finishes. Some appear with visible veneer surfaces, while others are front-upholstered or fully upholstered. Upholstery can be done in both fabric and leather, and frames are seen in various metals and surface treatments. This variation makes Arne Jacobsen chairs suitable for many types of interiors – from private dining rooms to professional work and meeting environments – without the original design losing its identity.
Well-known Arne Jacobsen chair models
3107 – Series 7
The Series 7 chair, model 3107, was introduced in 1955 and is today one of the most widespread chairs in Danish furniture history. The chair further develops the basic form of the Ant into a more balanced and versatile design. The Series 7 is often used as a dining chair but is also seen in meeting and conference environments, where its lightness and strength are clearly expressed. It is available in many finishes and can appear both discreet and more exclusive depending on the surface, upholstery, and frame. The combination of comfort, durability, and formal clarity has secured the Series 7 a lasting place in both private and public spaces.
3207 – Series 7 with armrests
Model 3207 is the Series 7 chair with integrated armrests and offers a more enveloping seating experience. The armrests provide extra comfort and make the chair particularly suitable for longer stays around dining and meeting tables. At the same time, the model retains the series' characteristic lightness and proportions. The 3207 functions both as a standalone chair and as part of larger arrangements where uniformity and comfort are in focus.
3100 – The Ant
The Ant, model 3100, was originally designed in 1952 for the Novo Nordisk canteen. The chair is known for its organic, almost sculptural form and its lightweight construction. The Ant is available with both three and four legs, which provides different visual expressions and uses. It is stackable and particularly suitable for dining areas, kitchens, and larger contexts where flexibility is crucial. The Ant's simple silhouette and functional construction have made it one of Arne Jacobsen's most significant pieces of furniture.
AJ 3130 – Grand Prix
The Grand Prix chair was designed in 1957 and got its name after winning the highest award at the Triennale in Milan. The chair differs from the Ant and the Series 7 with its more striking and graphic design language. The pressure-molded shell gives the chair a distinct visual expression, making it suitable both as a dining chair and as a more prominent element in the interior design. The Grand Prix chair is a clear example of Arne Jacobsen's ability to combine function with a strong and independent design expression.
AJ 3102 – The Tongue
The Tongue is a chair with a simple and clear design language that is a natural extension of Jacobsen's other dining chairs. The form is light and well-balanced, and the chair works well in both private and professional contexts. The Tongue is often used around dining and meeting tables where a discreet piece of furniture with clear functional quality is desired. The model demonstrates Jacobsen's ability to vary and refine a basic idea without compromising the overall integrity.
Oxford office chairs
Oxford chairs are developed for office and work environments and are available in several variants with different heights, backrests, and functions. Some versions come with armrests and wheels, while others appear simpler and stationary. The Oxford chair combines high seating comfort with a strict, architectural expression. It is often used in both classic and modern office environments where ergonomics and aesthetics must work side by side.
AJ 3108 – The Lily / The Seagull chair
The AJ 3108, also known as the Lily or Seagull chair, has a more sculptural design language than many of Jacobsen's other chairs. Its striking silhouette gives the chair a distinctive character, while its function as a seating furniture is carefully thought out. The chair can be used both as a dining chair and as a more prominent feature in the interior design. The model attests to Arne Jacobsen's more experimental approach to form, where proportions and lines are still precisely balanced.
Restoration at KLASSIK
At KLASSIK, each Arne Jacobsen chair is assessed individually with respect for the original design and craftsmanship. The restoration is carried out with a focus on preserving the chair's character, proportions, and expression, while ensuring comfort and function.
Our workshop has been working with original Danish furniture classics since 1991 and has extensive experience with the restoration of Arne Jacobsen chairs in many different finishes.
Sell your Arne Jacobsen chairs to KLASSIK
We purchase original Arne Jacobsen chairs – including Series 7, The Ant, Grand Prix, The Tongue, Oxford chairs, and The Lily/Seagull chairs. Send us pictures and relevant information via our contact form, and receive a professional valuation based on condition, originality, and demand.
At KLASSIK, you get a safe and simple sales process where we handle everything from valuation to collection.
Originality, sustainability, and authenticity guarantee
Original Arne Jacobsen chairs bear their history in patina and signs of use. At KLASSIK, we consider these marks as part of the furniture's quality and authenticity. With over 30 years of experience and thousands of pieces of furniture passing through our hands, we guarantee the authenticity of all furniture in our selection.
Therefore, we offer a lifetime authenticity guarantee on all furniture purchased from us. At KLASSIK, you invest in original Danish design – with confidence.
Contact us
Since 1991, we have specialized in the purchase, sale, and restoration of original Danish furniture classics. You are always welcome to contact us or visit us at our store at Bredgade 3, 1260 Copenhagen K.
Phone: +45 33 33 90 60
Email: support@klassik.dk
Instagram: @klassikcopenhagen
