Icons at The Conran Shop: CH24 Wishbone Chair

The timeless CH24 Wishbone Chair demonstrates the ultimate versatile comfort: a synthesis of intricate craftsmanship and signature mid-century design.

As a part of our Icons at The Conran Shop series, we take a closer look at this versatile piece that holds a special position in the history of modern design.

Carl Hansen 4 — Black Ash Wishbone Chair: Courtesy of Carl Hansen & Søn

Inspired by a portrait of Danish merchants sitting in traditional Ming chairs, the CH24 Wishbone Chair showcases the ergonomic sensibility that defines the antique Chinese chair. Designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1949, the classic CH24 Wishbone Chair was one of the first pieces made by Wegner specifically for Danish design collective Carl Hansen & Søn, and has been produced by them continually since 1950.

Carl Hansen 3 — Natural wood Wishbone Chairs: Courtesy of Carl Hansen & Søn

Making a Wishbone

With its gently rounded top and sculptural shape, the CH24 Wishbone Chair allows for freedom of movement and superior comfort. The characteristic ‘Y’ detail provides back support and stability and inspires the chair’s namesake. The CH24 Wishbone Chair’s seat is hand-woven from 120 metres of paper cord, which can last up to 50 years.

Carl Hansen 5 — Wishbone Chair in all-black and painted ash editions: Courtesy of Carl Hansen & Søn

Hans J. Wegner (1914 – 2007)

Hans J. Wegner was one of the leading figures in 20^th century furniture design. Amongst many accolades, Wegner was an honorary member of The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and received an honorary doctorate from London’s Royal College of Art. The CH24 Wishbone Chair is an excellent example of Wegner’s constant striving towards organic simplicity in his work and his desire to create sculptural beauty, comfort and outstanding stability.

Hans J. Wegner’s iconic CH24 Wishbone Chair is available both in-store and online at The Conran Shop. Highly configurable, it is available to purchase in a variety of woods, painted finishes and paper cord colours – explore the entire collection here.