Chairs by Arne Jacobsen

The story behind

Arne Jacobsen (1902–1971) occupies a central position in the history of Danish design and architecture. As both an architect and designer, he consistently worked with holistic thinking, where furniture was developed as an integrated part of the spaces in which it was to be incorporated. His approach was analytical and uncompromising, and each design was crafted with a focus on function, proportions and industrial production.

The Myren and Syver chairs in particular have achieved iconic status and today stand 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. Together with a number of other chairs, they form the core of Arne Jacobsen's furniture design and testify to his ability to create furniture that combines practicality with a clear and timeless design language.

The design and materials

Arne Jacobsen chairs are characterized by a precise and consistent design language, where the chair is reduced to its basic elements. Many models are built around molded shells, which give the chairs their characteristic, organic shapes and at the same time enable industrial manufacturing in high quality. The construction and frame are often light and elegant, which contributes to a balanced and calm expression.

The chairs are available in a wide range of designs. Some have visible veneer surfaces, while others are front-upholstered or fully upholstered. Upholstery can be made in both textile and leather, and frames are available 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 losing the original design's identity.

Famous models of Arne Jacobsen chairs

3107 – Seven

The Syver chair, model 3107, was introduced in 1955 and is today one of the most widely used chairs in Danish furniture history. The chair further develops the basic shape of the Ant in a more balanced and versatile design. The Syver 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 versions and can appear both discreet and more exclusive depending on the surface, upholstery and frame. The combination of comfort, durability and clarity of form has ensured the Syver a lasting place in both private and public spaces.

3207 – Seven with armrests

Model 3207 is the Syver chair with integrated armrests and offers a more enveloping seating experience. The armrests add 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. 3207 works both as a stand-alone 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 shape and lightweight construction. The Ant is available with both three and four legs, which provides different visual expressions and application options. It is stackable and particularly suitable for dining areas, kitchens and larger settings where flexibility is essential. The Ant's simple silhouette and functional structure 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 prize at the Triennale in Milan. The chair differs from the Ant and the Seven by its more distinctive and graphic design language. The moulded 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. 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 – Tongue

The Tongue is a chair with a simple and clear design language, which is a natural extension of Jacobsen's other dining chairs. The shape 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 shows Jacobsen's ability to vary and refine a basic idea without compromising the whole.

Oxford office chairs

The Oxford chairs are designed for office and work environments and are available in several variants with different heights, backrests and functions. Some versions have armrests and wheels, while others appear more simple 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 – Lily / Seagull Chair

AJ 3108, also known as the Lily or Seagull Chair, has a more sculptural design than many of Jacobsen's other chairs. The distinctive silhouette gives the chair a characterful expression, while the function as seating furniture is carefully thought out. The chair can be used both as a dining chair and as a more distinctive feature in the interior. The model is evidence of Arne Jacobsen's more experimental approach to form, where proportions and lines are still precisely coordinated.

Renovation 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 worked with original Danish furniture classics since 1991 and has extensive experience in restoring Arne Jacobsen chairs in many different designs.

Sell ​​your Arne Jacobsen chairs to KLASSIK

We buy original Arne Jacobsen chairs – including Syver, Myren, Grand Prix, Tongen, Oxford chairs and Lilje/Mågestole. Send us pictures and relevant information via our contact form, and get a professional assessment based on condition, originality and demand.

At KLASSIK you get a safe and simple sales process, where we handle everything from assessment to pickup.

Originality, sustainability and guarantee of authenticity

Original Arne Jacobsen chairs carry their history in patina and signs of wear. At KLASSIK we consider these signs to be part of the quality and authenticity of the furniture. With more than 30 years of experience and thousands of pieces of furniture through our hands, we guarantee the authenticity of all furniture in our range.

That's why we offer a lifetime guarantee of authenticity on all furniture purchased from us. At KLASSIK you invest in original Danish design – with certainty.

Contact us

We have specialized in buying, selling and refurbishing original Danish furniture classics since 1991. You are always welcome to contact us or visit us in our store at Bredgade 3, 1260 Copenhagen K.

Phone: +45 33 33 90 60
Email: support@klassik.dk

Instagram: @klassikcopenhagen