Wednesday 23 January 2008

Kaare Klint

As the primary force behind the founding of the furniture school at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen in 1924, Kaare Klint (1888–1954) helped shape the sensibilities of many of the young designers under his instruction. Most notably Poul Kjærholm and Børge Mogensen.
Klint believed that thorough an understanding of the materials, proportions, and construction of classical furniture was the basis for understanding the principles for designing the new. The following pieces, some of his most enduring designs, are the distilled essence of their 18Th Century forerunners.


Cuban Mahogany Cabinet, 1930.


Mahogany Desk, 1930.


Stained Ash and Leather Safari Chair, 1933.


Stained Oak and Leather Propeller Stool, 1927.


Leather and Mahogany Sofa, 1930.

Can be sourced at: danish-furniture.com and Andrew Hollingsworth, arguably on of the best retailers of European design classics in the US.

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11 comments:

The Peak of Chic said...

Perhaps more designers should follow Klint's advice and learn the whys and wherefores of classic furniture/design. I adore that safari chair.

Mrs. Blandings said...

Someone just told me that my era should have been 30's/40's - oh she might be right. The desk makes me swoon.

HOBAC said...

PoC - I agree completely. But you knew I would.
They are very smart!

design dna said...

that mahogany desk is divine!

TIG said...

All wonderful examples--I definitely share your affinity for well-designed, expertly-crafted furniture.

HOBAC said...

Thanks, TiG!

Suzy said...

isn't it incredible what you can come up with when you actually understand what you're designing! ;) Love the cuban cabinet, but then they're all stunning pieces.

HOBAC said...

Suzy - wouldn't it look great with your new chair?

Suzy said...

yikes HOBAC, don't give me those kinds of ideas! my credit card is still reeling from the last chair I bought! but you're right, it would... ;)

An Aesthete's Lament said...

Klint was genius, no? I've never seen any of his work that I haven't absolutely coveted.

HOBAC said...

AL- I love the fact his designs are still made by the original company - who are not willing to compromise his vision for the sake of commercialism.