Hans Wegner’s Iconic Lounge Chairs - From Shell Chair to Flag Halyard Chair

According to Forbes, Hans Wegner's name is a staple in Scandinavian design around the world,and his chair designs seeming simple, ushered an appreciation for Danish modern design in America and all over the world.

Though many craftsmen may build you a chair,design master Wegner earns the distinction of creating a range of iconic chair designs, including the one and only, the three-legged Shell Chair back in 1963.

One of his chairs even appeared on the cover of a renowned American Magazine, instantly heralding the arrival of this major Danish design talent.

Son of a cobbler, Wegner began as an apprentice with a cabinetmaker before studying at the Danish Design School and the Copenhagen School of Arts and Crafts,where the hallmarks of his style, sometimes referred to organic functionality, was refined.

Believe it or not, he designed over 500 chair styles during his heralded career, with many of them being massively produced. It’s no wonder MODERN Magazine celebrated the centennial of this Danish master! Here's a look at fourgemsfrom his archive:

1. Shell Chair

Did you know the public was first reluctant to accept the Shell Chair with an avant-garde vibe back when it debuted? WOW… It was ahead of its time! Yet critics loved it! This three legged beauty with Nordic features is, hands down, the edgiest piece from mid century modern design master Wegner.

The Shell Chair was first introduced at the furniture Guild Exhibition in Copenhagen, Denmark back in 1963. Luckily, the public adored the airy, curvy new version of the piece which was reintroduced in 1997.

2. Papa Bear Chair

Another Wegner classic, the Papa Bear Chair was designed in 1954. The piece was named so after a journalist reviewing it referred to its armrests as “great paws embracing you from behind”. Those familiar with Wegner’s simplistic designs may be surprised by this anthropomorphic chair.

The only wood in sight can be seen in the chair’s legs, while the body is wrapped in traditional upholstery. The slanted back and generous arm rests exude comfort, while still keeping a stylish form.

3. Ox Chair

Did you know Hans Wegner’s favorite furniture piece ever was the sculptural Ox Chair? It was wrapped in fine leather and perched on a chromed steel base, provingmid century modern design doesn’t have to be so serious.

Supposedly, overly inflated shapes featured in Picasso’s paintings inspired this design icon originated in 1960.Come to think of it, if you take Surrealism as a point of reference, this lounge chair is incredibly true to their shape.

4. Flag Halyard Chair

Did you know the lux design for the Flag Halyard Chair designed in the late 1940s was inspired by a hot summer day at the beach? Pretty impressive!Supposedly, Hans Wegner came up with the idea as he was meticulously carving a spot in the sand for himself to relax.

This iconic lounge chair is supported by a specially developed flag line through a stainless steel frame andlong-hair sheep skin covering, for the ultimate relaxing luxury.

We hope this truly inspires you. So, there you go! In our opinion, these were, hands down, the best lounge chairs by Danish icon Hans Wegner. Which of them did you like best? Our personal favorite is the Shell Chair.

It was ahead of its time! Even if this three legged beauty wasn’t in style when first released, now it will never be out of style. Don't forget to visit Manhattan Home Design for Hans Wegner Shell Chair replicas. Browse our extensive catalog!