The Original Wishbone Chair: A Danish Design Classic
The original Wishbone Chair is one of the most recognisable pieces of twentieth-century furniture. With its sculptural wooden frame, distinctive Y-shaped back and hand-woven seat, it brings together simplicity, comfort and skilled craftsmanship. Known officially as the CH24, the chair remains a celebrated example of Danish modern design.
Who designed the Wishbone Chair?
The Wishbone Chair was designed by Danish designer Hans J. Wegner in 1949. It entered production in 1950 and has been made by the Danish furniture maker Carl Hansen & Søn ever since. Wegner was renowned for creating practical, beautifully made furniture, and the CH24 reflects his interest in combining traditional woodworking with clean, modern forms.
The chair’s shape was partly inspired by Chinese Ming-era chairs. Wegner reinterpreted their graceful frames in a distinctly Scandinavian style, using streamlined lines and natural materials. Its curved back and Y-shaped support give the design its familiar nickname: the “Wishbone” Chair.
What makes the original Wishbone Chair distinctive?
The CH24 is carefully constructed from a relatively small number of components. Its frame is typically made from solid wood, with options that can include oak, beech, ash and walnut, depending on the finish and collection. The back combines a curved top rail with the characteristic Y-shaped support, while the seat is woven by hand from paper cord.
That woven seat is more than a decorative detail. It gives the chair a comfortable, supportive surface and contributes to its light, natural appearance. Each seat takes a skilled craftsperson several hours to weave, making the cord an important part of the chair’s character.
Despite its elegant proportions, the Wishbone Chair is designed for everyday use. Its open frame helps it sit comfortably in a range of settings, from a dining room to a home office or a quiet reading corner.
How to recognise an original CH24
Many chairs take inspiration from the Wishbone design, so it is worth checking the details when buying one described as original. Look for clear information about the maker, model and provenance. An authentic CH24 is produced by Carl Hansen & Søn; reputable retailers should be able to confirm this and provide details of the finish and materials.
Labels, stamps or other identifying marks may be present, but their format can vary by age and production period. A mark alone should not be treated as conclusive proof of authenticity. When considering a vintage chair, ask for photographs of the frame, underside and seat, as well as any available receipts or ownership history. If the seller cannot verify the maker, treat the description with caution.
It is also useful to distinguish between a genuine vintage chair and a new original. A newly made CH24 is an authentic production of Wegner’s design, but it is not an antique or vintage piece. The seller should describe its age accurately.
Choosing a finish
The original Wishbone Chair is available in a variety of woods, colours and finishes. Natural timber brings out the grain and warmth of the material, while painted or coloured versions can make the chair a stronger feature in a room. The woven seat is commonly left in a natural tone, although variations are available.
When choosing a finish, consider the furniture already in the room, but do not feel every wood tone has to match. The chair’s clean lines allow it to work alongside both contemporary pieces and older furniture. A single chair can add a subtle design accent; a set around a dining table creates a more cohesive look.
Care and maintenance
With regular, gentle care, a Wishbone Chair can remain part of a home for many years. Dust the wooden frame with a soft, dry cloth and follow the maker’s guidance for the specific finish. Avoid harsh cleaning products, abrasive cloths and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat, which may affect the wood.
The paper-cord seat is durable, but it should be kept dry and treated with care. Avoid standing on it or putting concentrated pressure on a small area. Over time, natural wear may appear; a specialist can advise whether the cord needs attention or replacement.
A design that has stood the test of time
More than seven decades after it first went into production, the original Wishbone Chair remains a popular choice for its balance of form and function. It is recognisable without being overbearing, and its natural materials bring warmth to a room. Whether bought as a dining chair or as a single statement piece, the CH24 is a lasting example of thoughtful design and traditional craftsmanship.
Original Wishbone Chair FAQs: Authenticity, Manufacturer, UK Prices, Materials and Care
- How can I tell if a Wishbone Chair is an original Hans J. Wegner CH24?
- Who makes the original Wishbone Chair?
- How much does an original Wishbone Chair cost in the UK?
- What materials are used to make an original Wishbone Chair?
- How should I care for and clean an original Wishbone Chair?
How can I tell if a Wishbone Chair is an original Hans J. Wegner CH24?
To check whether a Wishbone Chair is an original Hans J. Wegner CH24, look for reliable evidence that it was made by Carl Hansen & Søn, the authorised producer of the design. Ask the seller for clear photographs of any maker’s labels or stamps, including those beneath the seat, along with details of the chair’s age, materials and provenance. These markings can vary between production periods, so no single label should be treated as definitive proof; for a vintage chair, supporting paperwork or a verifiable ownership history can help. If authenticity is uncertain, contact Carl Hansen & Søn or a reputable dealer for guidance, and be cautious of listings that use “Wishbone-style” or cannot confirm the maker.
Who makes the original Wishbone Chair?
The original Wishbone Chair, also known as the CH24, is made by the Danish furniture company Carl Hansen & Søn. Designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1949, it has been in production with the company since 1950. When buying one, check that the maker is clearly identified as Carl Hansen & Søn, particularly if the chair is described as an authentic original.
How much does an original Wishbone Chair cost in the UK?
In the UK, a new, authentic Hans J. Wegner CH24 Wishbone Chair typically costs around £600–£1,000, depending on the wood, finish and seat details; special editions may cost more. Vintage examples vary widely, with price depending on age, condition, provenance and whether the original paper-cord seat has been replaced. Check that the chair is made by Carl Hansen & Søn and compare current prices with authorised retailers, as costs can change.
What materials are used to make an original Wishbone Chair?
An original Wishbone Chair (CH24) is made with a solid-wood frame, available in a range of timber types and finishes, such as oak, beech, ash or walnut. Its distinctive Y-shaped back and curved top rail are crafted from shaped wood, while the seat is hand-woven from durable paper cord. The precise timber and finish can vary between versions, so check the product details when choosing a chair.
How should I care for and clean an original Wishbone Chair?
To care for an original Wishbone Chair, dust the wooden frame regularly with a soft, dry cloth and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for its particular finish. For the paper-cord seat, gently remove dust with a soft brush or the appropriate low-suction vacuum attachment, taking care not to snag the weave. Wipe up spills promptly with a clean, lightly damp cloth, then allow the area to dry naturally; avoid soaking the cord or using harsh cleaners, abrasive products or excessive moisture. Keep the chair away from prolonged direct sunlight, radiators and damp conditions, and contact a furniture specialist if the seat or frame needs repair.