Y Chair CH24 - Carl Hansen

Y Chair

Hans J. Wegner created the Y-Chair for Carl Hansen & Søn with the aim of combining complex construction with a visually minimalistic expression. The distinctive Y-shaped backrest, which gave the chair its name, is more than an aesthetic detail. It is a technical solution that adds stability, while the steam-bent top rail, crafted from a single piece of wood, offers ergonomic comfort. The result is a seat where form is truly rooted in function.

The chair’s global popularity as a design icon is based on this refined synthesis. It exemplifies Wegner’s ability to reinterpret historical references such as Chinese Ming chairs into a modern Scandinavian context. His ability to merge function, craftsmanship and historical awareness is a key reason why the CH24 remains relevant in contemporary interiors around the world.

Wishbone Chair – materials and detail precision

Crafting each Y-Chair requires more than 100 individual steps, most of which are carried out by hand. This dedication to detail results in a piece defined by exceptional material quality. The base is made from solid woods such as oak, ash and walnut, and each surface treatment from oiling to lacquering affects the tactile and visual characteristics of the wood.

The seat is handwoven from over 120 metres of waxed paper cord. This natural material not only gives the seat its character and durability, but also contributes to the chair’s signature comfort. The handwoven surface functions as a natural suspension that adjusts over time, making the Y-Chair suitable for extended use as a dining or desk chair.

Adaptable to different spaces

Thanks to its clean form and balanced proportions, the CH24 works well with a wide range of dining tables from round to rectangular. Its visual lightness, enhanced by the open backrest, means it doesn’t overwhelm a space. It also works beautifully as a standalone accent piece in a lounge or next to a desk, complementing other furniture with the same level of craftsmanship and material quality.

Investing in a Wishbone Chair means adding a piece with proven longevity both in structure and design. It is a chair that holds a fixed place in design history, making it a valuable part of any interior that aims for lasting quality.