Hans Wegner Jh512 Folding Rope Lounge Chair Appraisal

Hans Wegner JH512 Folding Rope Lounge Chair

This is a mid-century modern folding lounge chair designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1949 and manufactured by Johannes Hansen. The piece is constructed from two primary components: a warm-toned solid oak frame and a seat/backrest hand-woven with flag halyard (braided linen) rope. The design is characterized by its organic, minimalist aesthetic and clever functional engineering; the chair features a pivot point that allows the back to fold flat against the seat for storage or transport. The front of the seat features integrated handle cutouts in the wood, providing both a grip for the folding mechanism and a signature aesthetic detail. Measuring approximately 30 inches in height and 24 inches in width, this chair exemplifies Danish craft with its sculptural, tapered legs and mortise-and-tenon joinery. The visible condition shows a rich, aged patina on the oak, with some minor darkening and surface abrasions consistent with vintage use. The rope weaving appears largely intact but exhibits slight sagging and light discoloration, typical for organic fibers of this age. While no maker's mark is visible in the primary image, authentic examples typically bear the 'Johannes Hansen Copenhagen' branded stamp on the frame. This chair is a hallmark of Scandinavian design, representing a perfect intersection of high-concept form and residential practicality.