Easy Chairs Paper Knife by Kai Kristiansen for Magnus Olesen, Set of 2

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Set of 2 easy chairs ‘model 121’ designed by Kai Kristiansen in 1963 and produced by Magnus Olesen in Denmark. … Read more Set of 2 easy chairs ‘model 121’ designed by Kai Kristiansen in 1963 and produced by Magnus Olesen in Denmark. Because of the sharp edged armrests, this model is better known as the ‘paper knife’ chair. Kristiansen’s design philosophy “getting as much as possible out of as little as possible.” is reflected very well in this piece, that grew into one of Kristiansen’s most famous designs. Apart from being very comfortable, the paper knive chairs can be a fit with a variation of style because of their minimalist & elegant appearance. The cushions on this set are new and were recently upholstered in a green-brown quality fabric. The solid teak frames are in very good condition as well, as shown in the pictures.


About the designer:
Born in Hurup in northwestern Jutland in 1929, Kai Kristiansen grew up to the smell of freshly cut wood as both his father and grandfather were carpenters. His grandfather started with selling wooden coffins and, when Kai was 7 years old, his father built a furniture factory. When he was only 14 years old, he started sweeping floors and assembling pieces as an apprentice for his father, who not only produced furniture but also built houses.

His first internship was in an architect’s office in Aarhus. Afterwards Kristiansen applied for training at the furniture department of the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Kopenhagen after his first boss recognized his skills in designing interiors and furniture. Though he lacked an academic diploma, he was given a chance by the famous architect and designer Kaare Klint, director of the department at the time. After a move to Thisted, 30 km noth of Hurup, he and his brother helped their father after he impulsively bought another furniture factory. With the help of Kai, his patented ‘Treco’ table and a big project of producing interior cabinets, they successfully kept the business afloat and his father sold the factory shortly after.

His first commercial success came after cooperating with Feldballes Mobelfabrik and designing the FM shelving unit system for them. From there things went fast and Kristiansen started working with other manufacturers from his villa with basement studio in Aarhus.During his years in Aarhus, Kristiansen met and played cards regularly with other big designers like Niels Otto Moller and the sons of Carl Hansen. He also got to know Verner Panton, who was already a big name at that time.

Kristiansen‘s collaboration with Magnus Olesen led to the creation of the sculptural N°121 lounge chair, the so called ‘paperknife chair’. His design philosophy “getting as much as possible out of as little as possible.” is reflected well in this chair. Also the 42 chair for the Schou Anderson Møbelfabrik, with it’s beautiful curves and high comfort, became a big hit, selling not only in Scandinavian countries, but also in North America and elsewhere.Due to the difficulty of their creation, many of Kristiansen’s designs and models have gone out of production.

In 2014 the Miyazaki chair company in Japan collaborated with Kristiansen to give his design classics like the Handy Chair, the 4110 chair and the paperknife a new image. Kristiansen now aged 95 continues to design and develop furniture.His design objects carry great value among collectors, and Kristiansen is universally recognized as one of the most talented and important Scandinavian designers of the twentieth century. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
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