Kai Kristiansen Model 121 Paper Knife chair with restored rosewood frame and temporary green cushions, shown in its current in-progress state.

Close-up of the sculpted rosewood arm and frame on a Kai Kristiansen Model 121 Paper Knife chair with temporary green upholstery.

Kai Kristiansen "Paper Knife" Armchair

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Restored Frame, Upholstery in Progress
Named for the knife-like sharpness of its ultra-slim, razor-curved armrests, Kai Kristiansen’s Model 121 armchair is among the most sought-after seating designs of the Danish Modern movement. These rare examples are executed in magnificent vintage rosewood, exhibiting dramatic dark graining and deep chocolate-to-auburn tones. Carefully conserved to preserve the structural frame while refreshing the luster of the rare wood species.

CATEGORY:
Restored

DESIGN PERIOD & MAKER:
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950s–1960s); Designed by Kai Kristiansen for Magnus Olesen / Feldballes Møbelfabrik (Denmark)

STATUS:
In Progress
Available for Acquisition (choice of upholstered cushions)

PRIMARY MATERIALS & FINISH:
Solid teak frame, hand-rubbed Danish oil finish, spun steel vinyl coated Experspring suspension, full-grain cognac leather upholstery.

INQUIRE ABOUT THIS PIECE

Restored Frame, Upholstery in Progress
Named for the knife-like sharpness of its ultra-slim, razor-curved armrests, Kai Kristiansen’s Model 121 armchair is among the most sought-after seating designs of the Danish Modern movement. These rare examples are executed in magnificent vintage rosewood, exhibiting dramatic dark graining and deep chocolate-to-auburn tones. Carefully conserved to preserve the structural frame while refreshing the luster of the rare wood species.

CATEGORY:
Restored

DESIGN PERIOD & MAKER:
Mid-Century Modern (c. 1950s–1960s); Designed by Kai Kristiansen for Magnus Olesen / Feldballes Møbelfabrik (Denmark)

STATUS:
In Progress
Available for Acquisition (choice of upholstered cushions)

PRIMARY MATERIALS & FINISH:
Solid teak frame, hand-rubbed Danish oil finish, spun steel vinyl coated Experspring suspension, full-grain cognac leather upholstery.

INQUIRE ABOUT THIS PIECE

HISTORY & PROVENANCE

A sculptural icon of Danish Modern design.

c.1950s–1960s

DESIGNED BY KAI KRISTIANSEN FOR MAGNUS OLESEN / FELDBALLES MØBELFABRIK (DENMARK)

Introduced in 1955, Kai Kristiansen’s Model 121 “Paper Knife” armchair is defined by its slim, knife-like armrests and sculptural frame. Designed for Magnus Olesen / Feldballes Møbelfabrik in Denmark, the chair is a distinctive example of Danish Modern design, balancing a light visual profile with strong, expressive curves. This example features a solid teak frame and is currently being completed with full-grain cognac leather upholstery.

Restoration Highlights

Surface Conservation & Finish
The sculpted teak frame was completely stripped to raw wood, removing surface oxidation and sun-bleached tannins to reveal the depth of the original teak grain. It has been hand-finished with three coats of Danish oil to nourish the timber and impart a low-lustre, satin sheen.

Structural & Mechanical Renewal
The original seat suspension has been fully renewed, replacing aged Expersprings to restore the chair’s structural integrity and seating comfort.

Upholstery
The frame currently awaits upholstered cushions in cognac-dyed full-grain leather, completing a timeless contrast against the restored teak.

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