Carl Hansen CH24 Wishbone Chair

An Icon of Danish Design Since 1950

Few dining chairs have achieved the status of the Carl Hansen CH24 Wishbone Chair. Designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1949 and crafted in Denmark by Carl Hansen & Son since 1950, the CH24 has become one of the world's most recognisable pieces of Scandinavian furniture.

Celebrated for its elegant Y-shaped backrest, hand-woven paper cord seat and exceptional craftsmanship, the Wishbone Chair combines timeless design with everyday comfort. Whether placed around a dining table, in a kitchen, home office or hospitality setting, it remains as relevant today as it was over seventy years ago.

Each chair is handcrafted using traditional woodworking techniques, ensuring every CH24 offers the quality, durability and attention to detail expected from one of Denmark's most respected furniture manufacturers.

Why Choose the CH24 Wishbone Chair?

The CH24 has remained in continuous production for more than seven decades for one simple reason - it works.

Its gently curved back offers excellent support, while the woven paper cord seat naturally moulds to the body over time, creating a level of comfort that improves with use.

Unlike many contemporary dining chairs, the Wishbone Chair is designed to last for generations. Every component can be repaired or restored, making it a sustainable investment rather than a disposable purchase. An heirloom product for sure!

Customers choose the CH24 because it combines:

• Timeless Danish design
• Exceptional everyday comfort
• Handcrafted quality
• Sustainably sourced materials
• A wide range of wood species and finishes
• Outstanding longevity
• Originality and authenticity

The Story Behind the Wishbone Chair

Designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1949, the CH24 was inspired by traditional Chinese Ming Dynasty chairs. Wegner reinterpreted their graceful proportions into a chair that felt lighter, more sculptural and better suited to modern living.

The distinctive Y-shaped backrest gives the chair its popular nickname, the "Wishbone Chair". More than simply decorative, the Y-shaped support provides strength while allowing the chair to remain visually light and elegant.

Today, the CH24 continues to be handcrafted in Denmark using many of the same techniques employed when it was first introduced in 1950.

Crafted by Carl Hansen & Son

Creating a genuine CH24 requires over 100 individual manufacturing processes.

Each solid timber frame is carefully machined, hand finished and assembled by skilled craftspeople before the seat is woven using approximately 120 metres of durable paper cord.

This combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern precision ensures every chair meets the exceptionally high standards associated with Carl Hansen & Son.

Which Finish of Wishbone Chair Should I Buy?

One of the strengths of the CH24 is the variety of finishes available. The choice is huge and all comes down to perssonal preference and interior style but as a guide:

Natural Oak

Perfect for Scandinavian interiors and contemporary dining spaces, highlighting the beauty of the timber grain. This is the most popular choice and ideal if you have an oak or white dining table or desk, retaining a pared down and natural appeal.

Walnut

A rich, warm finish that complements darker interiors and creates a luxurious dining setting. Ideal for a walnut dining table and the most luxurious of choices. 

Beech

A versatile, durable choice in numerous finishes and the best value option.

Wood Finishes

In addition each wood option comes in a choice of finishes:
Soap - The closest to raw wood; grain and structure are visible; light in colour and feels 'raw'. Best value in terms of cost.
Oil - Grain and structure are visible; lighter than soap; creates lustre and brings out contrast in grain and structure. Darkens over time to a rich patina. The most popular choice.
Clear Lacquer- Grain & structure visible, darker than soap, glossy smooth finish which yellows over time.

Painted Finishes

For homeowners looking to introduce colour, painted CH24 chairs offer the same craftsmanship with a contemporary appearance. From classic black and white to softer muted tones, painted finishes allow the chair to complement both minimalist and colourful interiors. This version is made from beech and has a solid/ smooth paint finish so the wood grain is not visible through the paint colour.

If you're specifically considering coloured finishes, explore our dedicated page and guide to the Carl Hansen CH24 Painted Wishbone Chair collection for inspiration and available options.

Painted or Natural?

This is one of the questions we are most frequently asked.

Choose a natural timber finish if you appreciate the character of the wood grain and want a timeless look that develops a beautiful patina over time.

Choose a painted finish if you prefer a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic or wish to coordinate your dining chairs with your interior colour palette.

Both options share exactly the same construction, comfort and craftsmanship. It purely comes down to choice.

Comfort Designed for Everyday Living

Although admired for its appearance, the CH24 is first and foremost a chair designed for daily use.

The gently curved top rail supports the back naturally, while the woven seat provides subtle flexibility, making it comfortable for long family meals, entertaining or working from home.

Its lightweight construction also makes it easy to move, adding to its practicality in modern homes.

Caring for Your Wishbone Chair

With simple care, the CH24 can provide decades of use.

Dust regularly using a soft cloth and clean the timber with products appropriate for the chosen finish. The paper cord seat requires very little maintenance beyond occasional vacuuming with a soft brush attachment.

Avoid placing the chair in prolonged direct sunlight or very dry environments, as this may affect natural timber over time.

Why Buy Your CH24 from Utility Design?

As an authorised Carl Hansen & Son retailer, we offer genuine CH24 Wishbone Chairs with access to the full collection of finishes and expert advice to help you choose the right option for your home.

Our experienced team can explain the differences between wood species, finishes and colour options, ensuring you select a chair that will suit your interior for many years to come.

Whether you're furnishing a single dining space or specifying furniture for a larger interior project, we're here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this an authentic Carl Hansen & Son chair?

Yes. Every CH24 we sell is supplied directly through Carl Hansen & Son. Each one is stamped with a serial number.

Where is the chair made?

Each Wishbone Chair is handcrafted in Denmark.

How long does the paper cord seat last?

With normal domestic use, the woven paper cord seat is exceptionally durable and can last for many years.

Is the CH24 suitable for everyday dining?

Absolutely. The chair was designed as an everyday dining chair and is renowned for combining comfort with durability.

Can I mix different finishes?

Yes. Many customers choose to combine natural timber and painted finishes around the same dining table to create a more individual look.

Discover the CH24

The Carl Hansen CH24 Wishbone Chair represents the very best of Danish furniture design - timeless, beautifully crafted and designed to be enjoyed every day.

Whether you choose classic oak, elegant walnut or contemporary painted finishes, the CH24 remains one of the finest dining chairs available today and a piece that can be appreciated for generations. For further information and insight into the chair see our Spotlight on the Carl Hansen & Son CH24 Wishbone Chair.

See other Hans J. Wegner designs.
See other Dining Chairs.
See the Carl Hansen & Son collection.