The Fireplace Chair | Finn Juhl | 1946
With its sensual details – from the paper-knife armrests and crossed frame to the discreet buttons and relaxed, luxurious comfort – the Fireplace Chair embodies Finn Juhl’s signature approach to modern design. Originally created in 1946 for the company Bovirke, the chair is also known as the BO59 and has since become a beloved classic. Each chair is hand-upholstered in Denmark in either textile or leather, and the frame is available in oak, ash, or walnut.
Hallingdal beskrivelse
321
Please note that the versions shown here represent only a selection of the many available options. For a complete overview of colors and materials, please explore the material page.
Design:
Finn Juhl
Year:
1946, relaunched in 2023
Materials:
Ash, oak or walnut
Upholstery:
Leather or textiles
Model and Dimensions:
FJ 4610
W: 65 cm | D: 77 cm | H: 81 cm
Seat height: 41 cm
With its sensual details – from the paper-knife armrests and crossed frame to the discreet buttons and relaxed, luxurious comfort – the Fireplace Chair embodies Finn Juhl’s signature approach to modern design. Originally created in 1946 for the company Bovirke, the chair is also known as the BO59 and has since become a beloved classic. Each chair is hand-upholstered in Denmark in either textile or leather, and the frame is available in oak, ash, or walnut.
Design:
Finn Juhl
Year:
1946, relaunched in 2023
Materials:
Ash, oak or walnut
Upholstery:
Leather or textiles
Model and Dimensions:
FJ 4610
W: 65 cm | D: 77 cm | H: 81 cm
Seat height: 41 cm
A Defining Partnership
Finn Juhl’s collaboration with Bovirke in the mid-1940s resulted in some of his most iconic designs, including the Reading Chair, the 46 Sofa, and the Fireplace Chair. With its inviting form and refined details, the Fireplace Chair captures the essence of Finn Juhl’s philosophy – highlighting the separation between carrying and carried elements and adding a playful touch with its elegant cross-brace, a testament to masterful craftsmanship.
The design for the Fireplace Chair evolved from an earlier armchair Finn Juhl created in 1943 for book publisher Poul Westermann, crafted by Niels Vodder. The initial design featured the characteristic cross-struts beneath the seat but lacked the elegance of its successor. The version of the Fireplace Chair that Finn Juhl later designed for Bovirke, now produced by House of Finn Juhl, is also known as the BO59.
A Commitment to Local Craftsmanship
Once a global leader in furniture production, Denmark experienced a golden age of design from the late 1940s through the 1960s. With the rise of numerous factories, Danish Modern became an internationally recognized brand, securing Denmark’s reputation as a design nation. In recent years, however, the Danish furniture industry has faced serious challenges, with hundreds of factories closing or moving production abroad in search of lower labor costs.
House of Finn Juhl is committed to reversing this trend by prioritizing local production and traditional craftsmanship. As part of this effort, the reintroduction of the Fireplace Chair has become a meaningful addition to the collection of pieces produced in Denmark – further solidifying the company’s long-term dedication to revitalizing the Danish furniture industry.
Since acquiring the century-old Schou Andersen Møbelfabrik in Vejen, House of Finn Juhl has expanded its Danish production significantly. Several Finn Juhl chairs are now crafted at the 8,000 m² facility, continuing a proud tradition of solid wood craftsmanship.
Today, most of the collection is produced in Denmark, with the company’s headquarters and main workshop in Ringkøbing. A select few wooden frames are still made by House of Finn Juhl’s long-standing Japanese partner, known for exceptional quality.
Co-founder Hans Henrik Sørensen reflects on the production of the Fireplace Chair:
“With our own workshop in Vejen, we’re able to bring even more of Finn Juhl’s designs home to Denmark. We’re proud to carry this tradition forward and ensure it thrives for generations to come. While we continue our valued collaboration with Japanese craftspeople, expanding our Danish production gives us greater control—something we see as essential for the future.”