Pair of Danish Armchairs by Thomas Harlev for Farstrup Møbler, 1960's

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.