Founded in 1872, Fritz Hansen is an internationally celebrated interior design brand that celebrates simplicity, craftsmanship and elegance. Since their inception in Denmark over 150 years ago, they have collaborated with some of the biggest names in architecture.
As part of the 2023 London Craft Week, Hand & Lock was invited to reimagine their iconic Egg Chair. Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1958 for Copenhagen’s SAS Royal Hotel, the latest iteration features fine goldwork embroidery inspired by natural foliage.
This particular chair was selected to coincide with and celebrate the Coronation of King Charles. His well known love of nature, conservation and his tireless promotion of biodiversity were channeled into the final design; The Hedgerow.
The design was brought to life in the historic embroidery technique of goldwork, which is a specialism of Hand & Lock.
Hand embroidery designer Sukie Buzzacott carefully researched the history of the Danish interiors company, taking inspiration from the name of the chair and the King’s passions. She drew an intricate motif of leaves, flowers, a dormouse, two butterflies and a ladybird to represent a quintessential English hedgerow.
The final design was brought to life in the historic embroidery technique of goldwork, which is a specialism of Hand & Lock. The chair was then built by hand in Denmark.
A natural moss green coloured Kvadrat fabric was selected to contrast the vibrant gold embroidery and placement was considered carefully. Given the delicate nature of goldwork, it was placed high on the chair to avoid contact with anyone wishing to lounge in the cocoon-like chair.
As part of this unique collaboration and to highlight their commitment the promotion of fine craftsmanship, Fritz Hansen invited Hand & Lock’s embroidery tutor Lucy Martin to set up her frame in their London store.
Visitors were able to see a live demonstration of the ancient art of goldwork being created before their eyes and ask questions about the process.
Celebrating outstanding British and international creativity, London Craft Week takes place every May. For more information see their website.
