BØRGE MOGENSEN
Christen Pears talks to us about her passion for pieces by the Danish midcentury designer Børge Mogensen
What is it that you love about designs by Børge Mogensen?
The ! rst Mogensen piece I bought was the 2213 sofa for the living room a "er we renovated our house a couple of years ago. I ! rst became aware of Mogensen’s work through reading design books and magazines. It was probably the 1958 Spanish chair that caught my eye initially because it’s such a bold, rustic design.
I love the combination of beauty and functionality in Mogensen’s designs. I’m keen on other Danish designers and have furniture by Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, but Mogensen’s pieces really excite me – his aesthetic seems to suit our house perfectly.
What’s your favourite of his pieces that you own?
If pressed, I’d have to say the 2213 sofa because I spend the most time on it. I’d love a Hunting chair, a Hunting table and one of his cabinets for FDB Møbler to match my bookcases.
Where are your key places to buy mid- century furniture?
I tend to buy vintage pieces because I like their patina and character. A lot of my furniture is from Pamono because it gives you access to reputable international sellers and the delivery is very reasonable, which is a major consideration when you live in Cornwall. I’ve also had some great bargains on eBay. Always buy from a trusted seller to ensure the piece is authentic – there are a lot of fakes and copies on the market. Condition is also an issue – vintage pieces will naturally have some wear and tear, so you have to decide what is acceptable to you. Ask questions, look at photographs and if there’s any doubt, don’t buy it.
What sorts of prices can you expect to pay?
I won’t lie – mid- century furniture can be expensive. The most I’ve paid is almost £7,000 for my sofa but, as with all of this furniture, it’s built to last and, if you look a "er it, it will continue for many years to come. Depending on what you’re a "er, you can pick up pieces quite reasonably. I bought a vintage Mogensen Windsor chair from eBay for £150, and the Shaker dining table and J39 chairs in the barn were also very reasonable eBay ! nds. If you prefer new pieces, Hay now produces Mogensen’s J41 chair from £ 225 and J42 chair from £ 275.