
Peter Hvidt (1919-1986) was a Danish architect and Cabinet maker.
Education
He studied cabinetmaking at Kunsthandvaerkerskolen, Copenhagen.
Biography
In 1942, he opened an office where various designers worked: Orla Molgard-Nielsen from 1944—75, Hans Kristensen from 1970, and British designer Adrian Heath. He had clients, including Fritz Hansen, France and Son, Allerod, Mobelexport, and Soborg Mobelfabrik.
The 1950 AX range of chairs and tables (with Molgard-Nielsen), produced by Fritz Hansen in 1960, marked the introduction of the laminate-glueing process (originally used in tennis-racket manufacture) in furniture making, while the design fostered an interest in Danish furniture. One sheet of laminated wood formed the chair’s arms and seat frame. He also pioneered knock-down furniture.
Peter Hvidt & Orla Molgaard Nielsen ‘X’ Chair
This stunning chair is a true work of art, featuring a burl wood inlay and expertly crafted laminated woodwork. The result is a highly sculptural and elegant piece. This chair was created by the Danish designer duo Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, who worked together between 1944 – 1975. With backgrounds in architecture, the couple designed around 250 furniture objects during their partnership. Their designs are known for their clean lines, simplicity, and functionality, all displayed in this exceptional chair.
Exhibitions
- He collaborated with (with Molgard-Nielsen) Shown at 1956—57 German ‘Neue Form aus Danemark’ traveling exhibition;
- 1958 ‘Formes Scan- dinaves’ at the Paris Musée des Arts Décoratifs.
- Molgard-Nielsen and Hvidt received diplomas of honour at 1951 ([X) and 1954 (X) Triennali di Milano and the ‘Good Design’ award in the USA in the 1950s for the AX 6003 chair. AX chair was shown at the 1951 ‘Good Design’ exhibition, New York Museum of Modern Art;
- 1966 ‘Vijftig Jaar Zitten,’ Stedelijk Museum;
- 1970 ‘Modern Chairs 1918—1970′ exhibition, Whitechapel Gallery, London;
- 1980 ‘Scandinavian Modern Design 1880—1980′ exhibition, Cooper-Hewitt Museum, New York.
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