Hans J. Wegner Papa Bear Chair

The Iconic Cognac Hide Hans J. Wegner Papa Bear Model AP19 Chair By A. P. Stolen.

The Papa Bear wingback chair, also known as the Teddy Bear chair, has two outstretched arms with wood detailing once described by a critic as “great bear paws embracing you from behind” — hence the name. The piece was designed by Hans J. Wegner (1914–2007), a pioneer of Danish modernism who crafted nearly 500 chairs over the course of his long career. Not many of them, however, have the anthropomorphic qualities that this one does.

The Papa Bear chair was Wegner’s first project with manufacturer A.P. Stolen, which enjoyed numerous collaborations with the designer over his career. Originally produced with a solid beechwood frame, Wegner’s chair, with its high backrest, lengthy back legs and comfortable cotton-upholstered cushioning, was designed in 1951 and had its first manufacturing run from 1953 to 1969. Its current production is managed by Danish joinery workshop PP Møbler, and the chair and ottoman are now available in a variety of wood and textile finishes.

This piece has been fully restored to the finest standard using only the best Argentinian hides available, exquisitely restored Afromosia staggered teak legs with matching hand-finished ‘Claws’.

Finished with contrasting, deep buttoned sculptured panelled backrest with Ivory contrasting piped detail to outer edges.
Piped seat cushion finishing off this iconic piece of sculptural furniture.