The ‘China’ chair turns 80 with a limited-edition new version

Rarely has a design that so failed to hit its brief become such a design icon. Hans J Wegner’s ‘China’ chair was originally created to answer manufacturer Fritz Hansen’s call for a chair that could be affordably and easily made. Wegner produced four initial versions of the chair, none were either affordable or simple. What they were, however, was undeniably beautiful.

Since its inception in 1944, the chair has been in constant production.

It is very special, says Marie-Louise Høstbo, Fritz Hansen’s Creative Design Director ‘because it represents the cusp of Danish Modern. It is decorative and sculptural and embodies an exemplary manifestation of the design principles for which Wegner became so famous.’

Fritz Hansen China chair 80 anniversary

The design is inspired by an 18th century Chinese chair (hence the name). It shows the simplified lines that are synonymous with Wegner’s work – you may be picturing the ‘Wishbone’ chair for Carl Hansen & Søn, one of our list of the best dining chairs to buy now – and mid-century Danish design in general, but also has an expressive, detailed quality. That detail is even expressed through the choice of wood. Fritz Hansen and Wegner selected the highest grade of wood, ensuring that the grain is matched on both sides of the seat for a seamless finish.

To mark the design’s 80th anniversary, the brand has decided to make an already special chair even more collectable. It will be made from European cherry, with the timber lovingly oiled to bring out the grain, and the seat upholstered in fine leather. Only 80 will be made, with each one numbered.

‘There is a new generation of people that are very selective, buying high quality, and building up a personal collection of meaningful pieces over a lifetime. This is a collector’s piece honouring the original as well as being our take on what’s special about our time,’ says Høstbo. The chair is on display during 3Days of Design (see our edit of the event’s highlights for more great Danish design).

With a price tag of £9,400 it is now, as it was when Wegner first pitched it, resolutely not affordable. If a design can inspire people for 80 years though, it’s almost certainly worth investing in. fritzhansen.com