​Overview Of Hans Wegner Life And Iconic Chairs

Over the years, exceptional artists have highlighted and turned the tide of design history, and Hans Wegner is undoubtedly considered one of this kind of artist. Creating from the Wishbone chair to the avant-garde Shell chair, the designs of this iconic character within the furniture field have embodied masterful craftsmanship as well as playful creativity.

Hans Wegner was one of the main contributors to the foundations in what is now known as Danish modernism, his skill and techniques for shaping structures served as a catapult making him a benchmark in the definition of mid-century modern aesthetics. Today we will talk a little about the early life of this renowned designer, we will also give you a brief description of one of the most iconic pieces within his 500 designs.

Early life of Hans Wegner

Hans Wegner was born in Tønder, Denmark in 1914. From early years he showed a certain interest in shape molding, years later he began his career, specifically in 1913, after acquiring some knowledge as a cabinetmaker.

When Wegner turned twenty, he studied at the Danish School of Arts and Crafts and at the Copenhagen Academy of Architecture, where designers and architects Erik Møller and Arne Jacobsen became interested in his molding and design techniques.

Wegner not only contributed to the fundamentals of Danish design but also made the design internationally known. In fact, he established his own design practice in 1943 and later exhibited his work in some of the world's leading design museums, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Since we have learned about the contributions and early life of Hans Wegner, it is now time to learn about his different designs that have captivated audiences from different parts of the world for more than 50 years.

Let's start with the avant-garde three-legged chair, the Shell chair.

The Shell chair was designed with the purpose of being displayed at the 1963 Furniture Guild Exhibition in Copenhagen. It is composed of an inclined backrest and a wing-shaped seat joined in a three-legged frame. At that time, this type of optimized structure had not been seen before, so it caused a stir among critics and the general public. If the criticisms appreciated how advanced its construction and form technique was for its time, the general public was not satisfied.

He had to wait years for his product to get the recognition it deserved. After mixed reviews in the 1960s the Shell Chair, also known as the Smiling Chair, was first released in limited production.

Wishbone chair - 1949

Another of the pieces adored by the public is the WIshbone chair. This chair has defined lines where the gemstone is clearly exposed through the shape of the chair in general. This design is unique due to its particular curves and striking back that follow the same trend of its edges.

Which of these iconic design are you favorite? Comment below what other Hans Wegner chair you would like to add to this list!