The collection
Armchair covered in brown leather as one shell with an X-shaped metal base.
1957

Armchair, Egg

Designed by
Arne Jacobsen (1902–1971)
Material
Chromium-plated steel, fiberglass, polyurethane foam, leather
Produced by
Fritz Hansen A/S, Allerød, Denmark
Dimensions
106.2 x 87 x 78.7 cm

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Liliane and David M. Stewart Collection, D87.131.1

Scandinavian design grew in popularity in North America following World War II. Consumers embraced the characteristic organic curves, simplicity, and fine craftsmanship. Jacobsen originally designed this chair and other furnishings for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. It was then put into production and made widely available.

This design is a modern version of the traditional wing chair, providing the same sense of comfort and protection from its side wings. The chair swivels and tilts on a steel base, providing additional comfort. The original leather upholstery here appears as a tight sheath, emphasizing the sculptural quality of the design.

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, photo: Giles Rivest.