Oxford classic armchair
Oxford™ Chair
The Oxford™ Chair by Fritz Hansen was originally designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1963 for the professors at St. Catherine’s College, Oxford. Commissioned to design the entire college – from the buildings to the landscape and furniture – Jacobsen created a chair that symbolised both prestige and modernist innovation. With its extra tall back, the “professor’s chair” offered a sense of authority while creating a private space of its own. Introduced to the wider public in 1965, the Oxford™ Chair came with both toes and wheels, and has since evolved into a full series. Today, it is recognised as one of Jacobsen’s most outstanding works of total design.
What makes the Oxford™ Chair special?
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Design heritage: Created in 1963 for St. Catherine’s College, Oxford.
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Symbol of prestige: Tall backrest represented authority and individuality.
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Part of total design: Jacobsen also designed the college buildings, landscape, and furniture.
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Evolution into a series: From the “professor’s chair” to the modern Oxford™ collection.
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Prestigious recognition: Jacobsen received an honorary doctorate from Oxford for his work.
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Timeless modernism: Considered one of Jacobsen’s most outstanding contributions to Danish design.
A chair with timeless appeal
The Oxford™ Chair embodies the spirit of Scandinavian modernism: elegant, functional, and deeply symbolic. From academic halls to modern offices, it remains a statement of prestige, authority, and enduring design.
Specifications
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Brand: Fritz Hansen
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Designer: Arne Jacobsen
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Year: 1963 (introduced to market 1965)
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Series: Oxford™
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Features: Tall backrest; originally produced with both toes and wheels
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Use: Academic, office, or dining seating
Styling & Pairing
The Oxford™ Chair pairs beautifully with Jacobsen’s Table Series, creating an elegant and functional office or conference setup. Its clean, modern lines also complement contemporary interiors in dining or meeting rooms.
A timeless design for modern living
A groundbreaking example of total design, the Oxford™ Chair stands as a symbol of authority and modernism – a piece that continues to resonate with design lovers worldwide.
FAQs
Who designed the Oxford™ Chair?
It was designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1963 for Fritz Hansen.
What was it originally made for?
The chair was created for professors at St. Catherine’s College, Oxford.
Why does it have a tall backrest?
The tall back symbolised prestige and created a private space for the user.
When was it introduced to the market?
It was introduced in 1965 and offered with both toes and wheels.
Why is it considered important?
It is seen as one of Arne Jacobsen’s most outstanding works of total design, combining architecture, furniture, and landscape into one vision.
Who produces it today?
The Oxford™ Chair is produced by Fritz Hansen.
Made to orders items are not returnable, unless faulty or damaged upon arrival - please see our returns page for more details
