How Do You Identify An Original? - Carl Hansen & Søn
Photo: Carl Hansen & Søn
A chair that captures the essence of Danish furniture design, the Wishbone Chair, designed by Hans J. Wegner is known not only for its iconic design, but it’s long-lasting quality and stability as well. While the sculptural chair has created inspiration for designers across the globe, it has also become a common knock-off piece.
Photo: Carl Hansen & Søn
Brand: Carl Hansen & Søn
Designer: Hans J. Wegner
Product: CH24 Wishbone Chair
Here’s what to look for when spotting the difference between an original Wishbone Chair and a fake:
One way to identify a Wishbone is to look at the curved top rail, the original backrest is made of one single piece, whereas most copies are made of three. The single-piece gives it the sturdiness the chair is known for.
Most recognizably, the seat is a huge determinant between a fake and an original Wegner chair. An original Wishbone seat is tightly hand-woven, constructed with approximately 120 meters of woven paper cord, making for more lines in the center. As the production of each seat takes one hour to craft, the 90-degree angles should be perfect in all four corners of the seat. The firmness of the seat is a result of this.
The Y characteristic is another determining factor of the chair’s authenticity; the distance from the original seat to the Y is 10 millimeters, making for a more comfortable chair.
Lastly, the finish of the Wishbone chair should be even and immaculate, derived from Danish oak, walnut, and ash.
As we celebrate the 70th year of the CH24 Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner, we celebrate the past, present, and future of authentic design. A portion of the North American sales from the Soft Colors collection will benefit the Be Original Americas Fellowship. Learn more here.