Hans J. Wegner (1914 - 2007)

manufactured by Johannes Hansen, chromium plated steel, white stitched black leather, the frames joined by two stretchers

Jens Bernsen, Hans J. Wegner, Copenhagen, 2001, p. 59 (for an illustration of another example of this model.)
Noritsugu Oda, Hans J. Wegner's 100 Chairs, 2002, p. 191 (a draft of the model listed as 'JH, 1970'). 

A stylish piece. Old marks and scratches, consistent with age and material. The leather with very minor signs of wear such as to the seat. This simple aqnd elegant chair is ready for use and display.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This chair belongs to a series of furniture in flat steel called the JH800 series which Wegner designed for cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen. The 'JH 812' model is an unusual design in steel for Wegner and the current lot is a rare example. Wegner first showed the design for this model, intended for production in wood and submitted anonymously to their annual competition under the nickname 'Lotte',  at the 1947 Copenhagen Cabinet Maker's Guild Exhibition. It was not produced however until 1970, and in steel, with advances in types and availabilty of new materials.  The entire 800 series was only made in small numbers and never went into larger production.