Pair of Model 213 Armchairs by Thomas Harlev for Farstrup Møbler, Denmark, 1960s | Complementary Pair — Offered as a Pair or Individually
Pair of Danish Armchairs by Thomas Harlev (Also Available Separately)
Available as a pair or individually.
Purchase options:
- Buy as a pair — discounted price
- Buy Chair A individually
- Buy Chair B individually
An exceptional sculptural pair of Model 213 armchairs, designed in 1958 by Thomas Harlev for Farstrup Møbler — a celebrated example of Danish modernism at its most sculptural and refined. Both chairs feature the designer’s signature curved arms, floating backrest, and light, refined teak frames — expressing the elegant simplicity and organic shaping that define Farstrup’s best work. The design balances visual lightness with enduring comfort, making these chairs equally at home as statement accent pieces, refined desk seating, hall table, reading corner or as carvers around a dining or conference table.
This versatile and highly collectible model is celebrated for its harmonious proportions, meticulous craftsmanship, and understated presence — a testament to Harlev’s ability to create furniture that transcends function to become functional art.
A complementary pair, while closely related in form and scale, the two chairs represent slightly different production variants from the same series.
Subtle differences in the backrest angle, arm joint detailing — one with double side stretchers and the other with a single stretcher, reflect Farstrup’s evolving craftsmanship during this period, and give the pair a unique character while remaining visually and functionally harmonious. This difference is consistent with production changes seen across Farstrup Møbler’s manufacturing periods of the Model 213 by Thomas Harlev.
Together they present beautifully, unified by their refined proportions and striking craftsmanship.
Designer : Th. Harlev
Fournisseur : Farstrup Stolefabrik
Origin: Denmark
Year: 1960's
Material: Teak and leatherette/skai
Dimensions approximately: Total height : 71 cm. Seat height : 43 cm. Arms height : 67 cm. Width : 55 cm. Depth : 52 cm.
Condition
Presented in very good restored vintage condition. The solid teak frames have been professionally refinished with a warm, even tone and only minor signs of age. One chair had an earlier structural repair which has now been properly reinforced and neatly blended into the frame for long-term stability.
The original black skai upholstery remains in very good condition. One backrest shows a small historic repair to the skai surface, which has been stabilised and finished for durability. The repair is visible on close inspection and is reflected in the price, but does not detract from comfort or overall presentation.
As with all authentic mid-century pieces, gentle signs of age remain and are considered part of their character.
Thomas Harlev — Designer Profile
Thomas Harlev was a prominent figure in Denmark’s mid‑century design movement, active during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for merging elegant simplicity with everyday functionality, Harlev designed a number of models for the respected manufacturer Farstrup Møbler, including the celebrated Model 210r (“The Smile”), the Stick Back chair, and the sculptural Model 213 armchairs.
His work reflects a graceful clarity—clean lines, refined proportions, and craftsmanship that elevates materials like teak into enduring sculptural forms. The Model 213 armchair, first introduced in the late 1950s and produced through the 1960s, exemplifies this approach: a seamless flow from curved backrest to gently contoured armrests, all supported by tapering teak legs that convey both visual lightness and structural integrity.
Harlev's collaboration with Farstrup Møbler played a key role in bringing high‑quality, accessible design to Danish homes and offices. Their partnership resulted in pieces that are not just functional but timeless—striking a balance between sculptural elegance and everyday comfort.
To this day, Harlev’s designs remain sought‑after by collectors and design connoisseurs.
We try to capture the condition of our items in our photographs as best as possible. Prior to dispatch all items are carefully cleaned and re-coated with danish oil to ensure your item is looking its best when delivered.
Prices do not include delivery.
Contact us to arrange to view, discuss collection or if you have any queries.
We deliver locally within Cape Town for a small fee and can accommodate collection by courier or in person. Collections must be made within two weeks of purchase as we cannot hold furniture for extended periods.
As to be expected with vintage items, this item may have minor amounts of wear. All of our items are available to view prior to purchase.
Although all effort is made to lighly refurbish and clean our furniture to best represent their original state, it must be noted that the majority of the items we source date from before 1980’s. For this reason signs of their vintage condition & age might still be visible. We try to point out any visible concerns.
Please note that all items are described to the best of our ability, we strongly encourage our clients to closely inspect item photos, descriptions, and details before purchasing anything. Please review all images as they are considered part of the item description.We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
VINTAGE CONDITIONS:
excellent - Like new, exhibiting minimal to no indications of wear, with scarcely any visible signs of age or use.
very good - Light use marks and signs of age, such as minor scratches and minimal wear on areas like feet or inconspicuous spots on veneer or leather.
good - Displays light to moderate scratches, with some more noticeable blemishes. May have small damages and stains, and the possibility of ring marks. Leather may exhibit small rips.
fair - Exhibits more pronounced scratches, including lighter ones in many prominent areas (e.g., the top of a sideboard). Leather may show tears and stress marksUnfortunately we currently only deliver in Cape Town area, but you are welcome to arrange courier on your side, we can also arrange on your behalf.
Shipment outside of Cape Town is NOT calculated at check-out and is quoted based on the item's dimensions and or weight.
Unfortunately we can not reserve any items until shipping has been finalized (the item should be purchased and checked out, with payment confirmation received if paid via EFT).
After purchase, we can assist you with costs from our preferred supplier.
Please note that all items shipped outside of Cape Town are wrapped extensively, we charge a small packaging fee depending on the item, starting cost of R100 per individual item. The cost of wrapping depends on the size of the item. For ALL our items, especially fragile items, i.e. glass and mirrors we recommend professional crating.
For fragile items or items that have glass elements we don't recommend shipment and transport outside of Cape Town.
Please refer to our Shipping Policy
Restoration Process:
In our studio workshop, every item undergoes an inspection and careful restoration process. We prioritize maintaining the original charm and patina of the piece, while also making it a beautiful addition to modern interiors.
Our Approach Includes:
- Examining and reinforcing the joints
- Cleaning the wood and removing any stains
- Conducting veneer repairs as necessary
- Polishing or refinishing surfaces to enhance their appearance
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