53 Sofa

Finn Juhl's characteristic design feature of separating the carrying elements from the carried is also at play in the FJ 53. However, this time the separation is achieved via more sophisticated means to add-in the aforementioned lightness and elegance. The rear legs, completely free from upholstery, protrude from the floor. In a single, unbroken motion they change direction and expand into an organically shaped armrest, almost animalistic in nature. The armrest wraps around the upholstery as if it is levitating, to arrive in a smooth and upwards point, begging to be touched.

The delicate transitions from the rounded to the sharp elements will help stimulate the senses, all the while painting a beautiful portrait of the wooden grain. It culminates in an explosion of the senses, but as usual, Finn Juhl manages to fulfill the practical and functional needs that are required of furniture. This combination brings meaning to each shape and expression, such that it spoils the user with comfort from a lost time.

Finn Juhl originally designed the 53-series for master joiner Niels Vodder. It was introduced at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers' Guild Exhibition later that year.

As one of the leading figures in twentieth century furniture design, Finn Juhl is responsible for introducing North America to the Danish Modern movement through his work on the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. Originally trained as an architect, he began creating furniture for himself in the 1930's and soon gained widespread recognition for his organic forms and expressive treatment of wood, often taking the material past the limits of what was thought possible. Thinking with the mindset of a sculptor, his ambition was to design furniture with movement and life.