When the term “egg chair” is mentioned, a nostalgic midcentury image arises – a sleek, rounded seat resting on a pedestal, impeccably resembling the eponymous egg, complete with a cushioned hollow at its center. Perhaps it’s occupied by a chic, space-age individual donning Pierre Cardin attire, complemented by Eames armchairs and a Saarinen Knoll table by their side.
However, the mental picture you’ve conjured might differ from the authentic, official Egg™ Chair. The “egg chair” title has two main contenders, each with a compelling claim. The first is the copyrighted rendition, crafted by the ingenious Arne Jacobsen. The second is the Ovalia Egg Chair, designed by Henrik Thor-Larsen, which achieved iconic status in popular culture, partly thanks to its prominent appearance in the movie Men In Black.
Back in 1958, Arne Jacobsen conceptualized “The Egg” as a commission for the SAS Royal Copenhagen Hotel in Denmark. Today, it is officially recognized as the Egg Chair, distinguishing it from numerous mid-century imitations. This masterpiece continues to be crafted in Denmark by its original manufacturer, Fritz Hansen.
Jacobsen’s creation presents a seamless, rounded oval at its rear, unfolding into an organic, winged armchair that envelops its occupant. While certain angles indeed reflect the curve of an egg, the design offers a fluid interpretation of the shape, with a hint of the timeless wing-back chair’s charm.
Henrik Thor-Larsen introduced his Ovalia Egg Chair a decade after Jacobsen’s design, in 1968. It quickly became one of the most iconic and groovy home accessories of the seventies, alongside macramé and shag carpeting, even though production ceased in 1978.
Interestingly, this is the quintessential egg chair that many envisage. It’s undeniably egg-shaped and, notably, Thor-Larsen’s creation attained pop-culture stardom decades after discontinuation. Its prominent role in the Men In Black film series solidified its fame, and it also graced TV shows such as Mork and Mindy. Hence, while it may not hold the Egg™ trademark, the Ovalia undeniably shines as a prominent star in its own right.
