Børge Mogensen, sofa model 2212 for Fredericia Furniture

BØRGE MOGENSEN (Denmark, 1914 - 1972) for Fredericia Furniture.
Two-seater sofa model 2212, design 1963.
Upholstered in brown leather, mahogany legs.
With signs of age wear.
Made by Fredericia Furniture, with tags.
Measurements: 76 x 158 x 82 cm. Seat height: 44 cm.

Sofa 2212 by Børge Mogensen combines Danish design with a modest aesthetic of remarkable sophistication. Originally, the sofas designed by Børge Mogensen were intended to furnish his own home, but soon became an icon of 20th century design. The generous proportions and cushions upholstered in fabric or leather provide exceptional comfort for the user. The armrests, meanwhile, feature a distinctive shape, characteristic of the 22 collection, reflected in a slight curve, higher at the back and giving the sofa a modern, timeless look. The seat, back and side cushions are completely detachable from the frame.

Børge Mogensen was one of the most prominent representatives of the generation of designers who gave birth to the Danish design concept that is now known worldwide. He began his career as a cabinetmaker in 1934, and two years later began his studies at the Copenhagen School of Arts and Crafts, where he was taught by Kaare Klint. He then entered the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, graduating as an architect in 1942. That same year he began working as design director for FDB, finally setting up on his own in 1950. Functional is the word that best describes Mogensen's design; most of his creations were conceived for industrial production, and are characterized by solid, simple lines, studied almost scientifically to be as functional as possible. His clean and highly functional aesthetic resulted in affordable and practical designs, his favorite material being wood. His client portfolio includes Fredericia Stolefabrik, Fritz Hansen and Søborg Møbelfabrik, among others. Notable projects include Spokeback Sofa (1945) and Spanish Chair (1959), as well as a variety of shelving and storage designs. He was honored with the Eckersberg Medal in 1950, the Copenhagen Joinery Guild's annual award in 1953 and the C.F. Hansen Medal in 1972.