Phillip Arctander, a Danish architect and designer, is credited with creating the Clam Chair in 1944. This piece, also known by its Danish name “Muslingestolen,” has become one of the most iconic examples of mid-century Scandinavian furniture. Known for its unique, inviting shape and luxurious comfort, the Clam Chair remains highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts with prices regularly fetching $10,000, 20,000 and even $30,000 USD at auction.
More on Arctander’s Clam Chair and his other 1950’s furniture continues after this advertisement:
Design Features
The Clam Chair is celebrated for its distinctive and inviting form. It features a rounded back and seat, creating a cozy and enveloping feel.
This design is not only visually appealing but also extremely comfortable.
The wooden legs, typically slightly splayed, complement the chair’s natural aesthetic and enhance its stability.
Original Clam Chairs were often upholstered in sheepskin or fabric, which added to their luxurious appearance and comfort.
The craftsmanship of the Clam Chair is of the highest quality, with meticulous attention to detail in both the upholstery and the wooden frame.
Identifying an Authentic Clam Chair
When looking to identify an authentic Clam Chair, several aspects are crucial.
The materials used in the chair are also important indicators.
Original Clam Chairs are made with high-quality materials, including natural wood and premium upholstery. Examining the materials can help ensure they match the period and quality expected.
The craftsmanship should also be carefully evaluated, particularly the way the upholstery is attached and the finishing of the wooden legs.
Finally, attention to specific design details characteristic of Arctander’s work, such as the rounded shape and the chair’s proportions, is essential.
Copies and Other Manufacturers
The popularity of the Clam Chair has led to numerous copies and reproductions over the years. Many of these are unauthorized copies, especially as the chair’s value and recognition have increased.
While some reproductions may be high-quality, others do not match the original’s craftsmanship and materials.
The Clam Sofa shown here was listed at Christies’ with the caveat “Attributed to” Philip Arctander which usually means the auction house cannot verify the authenticity of the piece.
Regardless, the Clam Sofa sold for GBP £10,625 or USD $13,560, demonstrating the strength in demand and popularity for Arctander’s Clam Chair.
This piece is made from beechwood, with sheepskin upholstery (it was re-upholstered which may also call the authenticity into question), and is 31 ½ in. (80 cm.) high; 50 ½ in. (128 cm.) wide; and 21 ½ in. (54.5 cm.) deep.
In some cases, licensed reproductions have been produced by certain manufacturers. These reproductions can still hold value but typically differ in some details from the original.
Contemporary designers have created pieces inspired by the Clam Chair, incorporating elements of its design into new furniture.
This “Oyster Chair“ which looks remarkably like Arctander’s original “Clam Chair” is made by Neue Maison in Los Angeles and sells for $1,295.
Paustian produces new licensed chairs if you like the design without the five figure price tag.
Were Arctander Clam Chairs Sold in IKEA?
Phillip Arctander’s Clam Chairs were initially produced in limited quantities and sold through select retailers and design outlets.
These chairs were available in various Danish retailers and design stores, catering to clients who appreciated high-quality Scandinavian design.
The original production runs were relatively limited, contributing to the rarity and desirability of the chairs today.
Contrary to what we’ve read in the MailOnline and other publications which quote them, Phillip Arctander did not work for IKEA, nor were his designs sold through IKEA. Arctander’s work is primarily associated with high-quality, mid-century Scandinavian design, which is distinct from the mass-market approach of IKEA.
IKEA, founded in 1943 by Ingvar Kamprad in Sweden, focuses on producing and selling functional, stylish furniture at affordable prices, often using a modular, self-assembly model.
While IKEA has collaborated with various designers over the years, Phillip Arctander’s work remains separate from the company’s product lines.
In the current market, authentic Clam Chairs are often found at high-end auctions, design galleries, and through private collectors.
These chairs can command significant prices, reflecting their status as design icons.
The Clam Chair by Phillip Arctander is a masterpiece of mid-century Scandinavian design, renowned for its unique form, comfort, and craftsmanship.
Although the market has seen many copies and reproductions, authentic pieces remain highly valued and sought after.
When searching for an original Clam Chair, careful attention to provenance, materials, and design details is essential.
A 1936 Paul Henningsen (Danish) Grand Piano, with a Philip Arctander bench.
Phillip Arctander
Phillip Arctander (1916–1994) graduated from the Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Architecture in Copenhagen, and worked as an independent architect from 1939 to 1947.
He became Head of Research in 1947 and served as Director of the Danish Building Research Institute (SBI) from 1968 to 1981.
Arctander was an advisor to the United Nations in construction and housing. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Eckersberg Medal in 1975.
Throughout his career, Arctander’s work was influenced by the broader trends in mid-century modern design, which emphasized simplicity, minimalism, and the harmonious integration of form and function.
His contributions have left a lasting impact on the world of furniture design, and his pieces continue to be celebrated for their timeless elegance and comfort.
His work has been exhibited in various design museums and remains highly valued in the collector’s market.
The Clam Chair has become an iconic piece, representing the essence of Scandinavian modernism and the enduring appeal of mid-century design.
Arctander’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and his innovative approach to design have ensured that his work remains influential and revered long after his death.
His designs continue to inspire new generations of designers and are cherished by those who appreciate the blend of form, function, and natural beauty in furniture design.
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