Republic of Fritz Hansen has announced the relaunch of its Oksen lounge chair by Arne Jacobsen. Originally released in 1966, and bearing strong angular expression in contrast to the soft lines that characterise Jacobsen’s celebrated Swan and Ant seat designs, Oksen’s name reflects the big, bold and powerful profile of the bull.

Conceived to elevate settings with luxurious shape and material, Oksen was not intended for a specific architectural project but rather the result of years of design experimentation. Jacobsen spent no fewer than five years developing the piece, and, in contrast to the rounded, organic shapes in his earlier work, Oksen is notable for its sharper silhouette, inspired by American recliner chairs, but also incorporating profound Germanic and Japanese influences.

Christian Andresen, Head of Design at Fritz Hansen, says: “To me, the Oksen is one of the most distinctive Arne Jacobsen designs and shows the great range of his talent. The precise and almost geometric design of the chair is unique, demonstrating that Jacobsen dared more than most others at the time. This is also why the chair is, in my opinion, a true Fritz Hansen product. Both fascinating and commanding, the Oksen is a true classic.”

www.fritzhansen.com