Egg Chairs have been around for more than half a century, and were originally meant to replace the couch or the sofa. They were first designed in 1958 by the famed designer Arne Jacobsen for Hotel Radisson SAS, in Copenhagen. Republic of Fritz Hansen manufactured the unusually shaped Egg Chair, using the best materials then available. Arne Jacobsen is said to have drawn inspiration for the Egg Chair from Eero Saarinen’s ‘Womb Chair’. The theory that the design for the chair was inspired is debatable, as the chairs had their own identity and were complete by themselves. The chairs were much appreciated and in demand for their unusual aesthetic appeal and comfort that they offered the user. Despite this only a small number of these original chairs were ever made.
Most of the chairs were made for the Radisson Hotel followed by a few that were collectables and were produced as a ‘Special Edition’. This managed to maintain the exclusivity of the chairs as only a select few could own them. The chairs were also exorbitantly priced, and each is estimated to have cost $60,000 back in 1958. The cost was however not a deterrent for those who wanted to own these differently designed chairs willingly paid for them. The chairs were beautifully crafted and were distinctive.
The highly priced Egg Chair was meant for opulent surroundings and was designed to fit in the most magnificent settings. The chairs were big and needed large spaces to be placed in. They were covered with the best quality cow-hide that not just gave the chair an inimitable richness that set it apart, but also contributed to it sturdiness. The chairs were classy yet had a rugged look, which made the chair quite unique. However, some people saw the use of cow hide in the designing of the chair as a major defect, as two cow hides were required to cover a chair completely. This created a noticeable stitching line running down the centre of the chair, where the two hides were sutured together. The stitching was seen by some critics as a major design flaw in the otherwise well designed and constructed chair.
In 2008 Fritz Hansen, the manufacturers of the original chair came out with 999 limited edition Egg Chairs, to commemorate the fifty years since the first Egg Chair was made. The limited editions were made in rich leather and suede and had exclusive designs that included a combination of two toned shades of light and dark chocolate brown suede. The base of the chair was made in bronze to perfectly complete the classy look of the richly textured chair. The use of bronze in the base was a clever introduction, since as the bronze oxidizes and ages it takes on a darker hue, further enhancing the look of the classic chair. Further, the Limited Edition chairs were hand polished which added to their characteristic appeal. The chairs were picked up by connoisseurs who appreciate and value the better things in life.
Everyone, of the Limited Edition Egg Chairs has an exclusive number engraved on the seat of the chair, concealed under the cushioning, along with a synopsis of the origin and history of the chair. The chair came along with a special limited edition book marking the 50th anniversary of the chair. The book has the detailed history of how the first Egg Chairs were constructed, along with rare pictures. A write up on Arne Jacobsen and Republic of Fritz Hansen gives an informative overview of two marvels of designing.
The design of the Egg Chair was unique and this was its main attraction. The chairs have been used to enhance the interiors of not just the Radisson, but according to a report in the New York Times, the chairs were also part of McDonald’s restaurant in London and Copenhagen.
The chair must not be confused with the Egg High Chair which has totally different concept and features.
Since there are very few of the original chairs, they are deemed as collectables, and it is difficult to actually get an original. However, like all classic pieces, these chairs have also been replicated. Imitations are widely available, but do not match the finish of the originals.