Pair of clam chairs

Designed by Arnold Madsen for Madsen & Schubell

Denmark, 1940s

Pair of ‘Clam’ chairs designed by Arnold Madsen for Madsen & Schubell in Denmark during the 1940s. Upholstered in soft natural sheepskin, these chairs are celebrated for their exceptional comfort and instantly recognizable sculptural form.

As the name suggests, the Clam Chair takes its inspiration from the organic shape of a seashell, with a seat and back that open invitingly around the sitter. The curved armrests and rounded legs in solid wood enhance its warm, organic character while showcasing the craftsmanship that defines Danish design of the period.

Designed in 1944 in Arnold Madsen’s small Copenhagen workshop, the Clam has long been admired as an icon of Scandinavian modernism. Although it was for years attributed to architect Philip Arctander, recent research confirms its true origin as the foundational model that established Madsen & Schubell’s legacy.

A rare and timeless example of mid-century Danish furniture design, combining comfort, craftsmanship, and sculptural beauty.