CH24 – A Danish Design Icon

CH24: Wishbone Chair, designed by Hans j. Wgner

“A chair is to have no backside. It should be beautiful from all sides and angles.”

Hans J Wegner, designer of CH24.

 

Within Danish design, few pieces have achieved the status of the CH24 chair, more commonly known as the Wishbone Chair. Designed by Hans J. Wegner for Carl Hansen & Søn in 1949, the chair is an iconic piece from the Danish Modern Design era which seamlessly blends form and function.

Hans J. Wegner, designer of CH24

Like the Wishbone, Hans J. Wegner was a pioneer of the Danish Mid-Century Modern movement. Designing over 500 chairs, Wegner is considered one of the most prolific and inventive of Danish designers.  

The design showcases Wegner’s deep understanding of wood craftsmanship, choosing to create the chair’s back and armrest out of a single piece of steam-bent solid wood. The Y-shaped backrest not only provides exceptional support but gives the chair its iconic name Wishbone. 

The chair’s design is deceptively simple, but more than 100 steps are taken to craft the product, mostly by hand. 120 meters of paper cord is used to hand weave the seat which creates both comfort and strength within the chair. The hand working is a testament to the talent of Carl Hansen & Søn’s skilled craftsman and ensures the chair is long-lasting. 

Now released in several types of wood, oil and colour finishes, the chair is a versatile addition to any interior. I use it within dining and home office spaces, residential and contract projects and have specified it within many of the years. It is a go-to piece for me as it provides style, comfort and function, and I’m honored to be connected with Carl Hansen to continue spreading awareness of this iconic piece.