Spotlight on the Series 7 Chair

Arne Jacobsen’s most iconic chair: Series 7™ is a masterpiece of Scandinavian design

The Series 7 Chair, designed in 1955, remains one of the most recognisable and best-selling chairs in furniture history. Its sleek, organic form and groundbreaking construction have made it a staple in homes, offices, and institutions worldwide.

Who Designed the Series 7 Chair?

The Series 7 Chair (Model 3107) was created by Arne Jacobsen, one of Denmark’s most influential designers. Jacobsen was a pioneer of Danish Modernism, known for blending function and beauty in his work. Inspired by new industrial techniques of the time, Jacobsen developed the Series 7 as a progression of his earlier Ant Chair (1952), using pressure-moulded veneer to create a comfortable, stackable, and lightweight chair. The design was revolutionary, demonstrating how furniture could be both practical and sculptural.

Why is the Series 7 Chair considered a Design Icon?

A true design classic isn’t just about looks—it’s about innovation, longevity, and impact, and the Series 7 Chair embodies all of these qualities. Its innovative construction features a curved plywood seat made from nine layers of veneer, creating a structure that is both flexible and durable. Beyond its craftsmanship, the chair is remarkably versatile, available in multiple configurations, including versions with armrests, a swivel base, and a barstool option, making it adaptable to a variety of settings. Despite being designed in the 1950s, the Series 7 Chair remains timeless, seamlessly fitting into modern interiors. Its status as a cultural icon was cemented in the 1960s when Christine Keeler posed nude astride a copy of the chair, linking it to one of Britain’s most infamous political scandals (the Profumo affair) and further solidifying its place in design history.

Does it go by any other name(s)?

Yes! The Series 7 Chair is also known as the Model 3107 Chair, which is its original product designation from Fritz Hansen. However, "Series 7" is the name most commonly used today.

Unlike some other iconic furniture pieces (like the Tulip Table, which was originally called the Pedestal Table), the Series 7 hasn't had a widely used alternative name. Instead, its distinct silhouette and reputation have made "Series 7" synonymous with Jacobsen’s innovative, moulded plywood design.

What Materials is the Series 7 Chair Made From?

The original Series 7 Chair, produced by Fritz Hansen, is crafted with a combination of high-quality materials that contribute to its strength and elegance. The chair features pressure-moulded plywood made from nine layers of veneer, which provides both strength and flexibility. The frame is made from chromed or powder-coated steel, ensuring its durability and stability. Additionally, the Series 7 Chair is available in a variety of wood finishes, including oak, walnut, beech, and others, as well as a selection of colored lacquer options, allowing it to fit seamlessly into any interior style.

How to Spot a Fake Series 7 Chair?

Like many design icons, the Series 7 has been widely copied. Here’s how to tell if yours is the real deal:

The Label

Every authentic Fritz Hansen Series 7 Chair has a stamped serial number on the underside.

The Construction

Fakes often have a thicker, less refined plywood seat.

The Shape

The original has a subtly curved waistline, while copies tend to exaggerate this feature.

The Price Tag

The original, authentic models are meticulously crafted by expert craftsmen, from premium quality materials and the price reflects this. They’re built to be used, enjoyed and loves for generations.

The Foolproof Method

The easiest, and safest way to know that a Fritz Hansen Series 7 Chair is a genuine original, is to purchase yours at Utility. As an official Fritz Hansen stockist, we’ve been proudly selling their 100% authentic designs for over 20 years.