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The J39 Chair was designed in 1947 by Børge Mogensen. J39 is a flexible, solid-wood masterpiece featuring a handwoven seat with natural paper cord. In 1939, as a 28-year-old architect just beginning his design career, Mogensen pursued his vision of producing high-quality, practical furniture that could popularise modernist design for the general public.
Danish Modern
Mogensen favoured furniture based on the principles of traditional cabinetmakers, adapted without compromising quality to facilitate local production. Mogensen laid the groundwork for what later became known as “Danish Modern” in the 1950s, along with Hans J. Wegener and Finn Juhl. Some of their key pieces have been so popular that they are still available for sale and remain in the public consciousness. They are part of Fredericia’s existing product range. A symbol that represents Mogensen’s unique close friendship with him.
Although the J39 Chair by Mogensen is reminiscent of Shaker furniture, Mogensen’s personal search for design purity is evident in its plain language and material choices. The J39 Chair’s durable yet refined appeal makes it ideal for private and public use. Today, modern and antique chair models are used in Denmark and worldwide in public institutions, universities, cafés, restaurants, and private homes. SINCE ITS LAUNCH, the J39 Chair has been in continuous production, given its flexibility and appeal to virtually everyone in any setting.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing
Collection Book 2020. issuu. https://issuu.com/fredericiafurniture/docs/collection_book_2020?fr=sMzcxMzc1MzU3Mw..
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