Crafting the Present: Wegner Ox Chair
When the Ox Chair was first introduced in 1960, its strikingly bold and confident design stood in contrast to the understated approach of Scandinavian furniture.
Referencing ox horns, a voluminous body, and a delicate frame, the sculptural chair exemplifies Wegner’s profoundly organic and artistic approach to furniture design, expressing his ambition to redefine traditional norms. Within Wegner’s extensive portfolio, the iconic Ox Chair is hailed as one of his ultimate masterpieces.
“ Upholstering begins with raw materials that, at first glance, seem insignificant. Yet, through a process likened to a battle, one ultimately arrives at a finished product. This transformation from nothing to something is what I find so appealing about the craft. ”
Erik Wichmann, upholsterer
Traditions kept alive
The Wegner Ox Chair is a perfect example of an innovative approach to an old craft. With its voluminous upper body on a delicate steel base, it was a challenge to produce when it was first launched in 1960 by a Danish furniture manufacturer called AP Workshop. In the late 1980s, Wegner turned to the Danish designer and manufacturer Erik Jørgensen for his upholstery expertise, and the result was quite pioneering at the time.
Together, they introduced modern block foam to the chair, making it highly stable in form, unlike the traditional method used before. When Fredericia acquired Erik Jørgensen's company in 2020, the workshop, upholsterers and knowledge were kept to maintain the expertise and high production standard.
Wegner's most remarkable design
With distinctive contours, refined craftsmanship and groundbreaking complex upholstery, The Ox Chair is arguably one of Wegner’s most remarkable designs. It is daring and creative while also serving as an analysis of body postures, inviting various seating options. Wegner furnished his living room with The Ox Chair, considering it a personal favourite.
Hans J. Wegner demonstrating the different seating positions possible in the chair.
Changing positions
The Ox Chair in Hans J. Wegner's own living room, photographed in 1994.
A favourite
Ox and Queen chairs and Ox Table on display in 1960 at the furniture fair in Fredericia, Denmark.
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