Valet chair, model no. JH540
designed (1953)
Medium
Teak (Tectona grandis), Elm (Ulmus sp.), leather, brass
Measurements
94.5 × 49.0 × 45.0 cm
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Margaret Ditchburn Bequest, 2021
Photo: © Xavier Defaix
Gallery location
Mid 20th Century Paintings & Decorative Arts Gallery
Level 2, NGV International
About this work
Hans J. Wegner came up with the idea for the Valet chair in 1951 following discussions about the practicalities of folding clothes at the end of the day. He initially designed a four-legged version but was dissatisfied and continued working on the design for two years, finally arriving at the three-legged form. The back functions as a hanger for a jacket and the seat is hinged in order to tilt upright for trousers to be neatly hung on it. Underneath the seat is a leather-lined box for keys, cufflinks, wallets and other small objects.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Copenhagen, Denmark
Accession Number
2021.573
Department
International Decorative Arts