1960s Restored Danish Modern Round Back Armchairs by Illum Wikkelso for Niels Eilersen

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A rare set of four low-back elmwood dining or accent chairs by Illum Wikkelsø, produced in Denmark by Niels Eilersen … Read more A rare set of four low-back elmwood dining or accent chairs by Illum Wikkelsø, produced in Denmark by Niels Eilersen c. mid-1960s.

Similar to Hans Wegner’s iconic Round Chair, Wikkelsø’s design features a broad, rounded back that flows seamlessly into a pair of organically sculpted arms. Wedged tenon joints connect the arms to the front legs, with the exposed end grain of the tenons providing a subtle contrast to the surrounding long grain. Below, the upholstered seat appears to float within the open frame, suspended amid four elegantly tapered legs.

Unlike the Round Chair, however, the back is formed from a single piece of wood, steamed and bent to shape. The technique draws directly on one of Eilersen’s historic specialties: the company began as a builder of horse-drawn carriages in the 1890s and developed expertise in steam bending wood to produce stronger wheels.

The set has been restored to showroom condition, with the seats newly upholstered in a soft black boucle and the frames fully refinished in a semi-gloss lacquer.

Two of the chairs retain their Danish Furnituremakers Control seal, which places their production in the mid 1960s. There is no manufacturer's mark. See less