Designed by Finn Juhl in 1954 and produced by France & Daverkosen in Denmark, the Model FD 133, commonly known as the “Spade Chair,” combines a remarkably light teak structure with suspended cushions and some of the most distinctive armrests found in Juhl’s production furniture.
The chair takes its familiar nickname from the sculpted ends of its armrests. Each broad teak arm tapers toward the rear while terminating at the front in an oval handrest, creating a profile reminiscent of the handle of a spade. These elements are supported by slender tapered legs and connected to an open structural frame, allowing the craftsmanship and grain of the teak to remain fully visible.
The construction is equally distinctive beneath the cushions. Rather than relying on a conventional upholstered platform, the seat and back are supported by a system of coated metal springs stretched across the teak frame. The cushions consequently sit within a remarkably open structure, reinforcing Finn Juhl’s recurring interest in visually separating the upholstered elements from the frame that supports them.
The FD 133 was introduced in 1954 and was presented that year at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild 400th anniversary exhibition in Forum. Period literature further records that the design was originally created for the office of C.W.F. France of France & Daverkosen and subsequently adapted for industrial production. The model represents an important stage in Finn Juhl’s collaboration with the manufacturer and in the development of Danish furniture intended for wider international production.
This example is particularly notable for retaining its early France & Daverkosen metal medallion beneath the seat. The marking directly documents production under the company’s earlier name, before the later France & Søn branding.
The teak frame displays warm colour and expressive grain throughout, complemented by light grey upholstered seat and back cushions. The open spring construction remains clearly visible from the rear, making the chair particularly effective when placed away from a wall.
Width: 29.1” (74 cm)
Depth: 29.5” (75 cm)
Height: 30.3” (77 cm)
Seat Height: 16.7” (42.5 cm)
Worldwide shipping available. Delivery can be arranged throughout Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland, and beyond. Shipping estimates generated automatically by the platform may not reflect the final cost. Please contact us before purchasing for an accurate shipping or delivery quote.
Follow us on Instagram @prayformodern
