About
Lifespan: 1918–2018
Profession: Upholsterer / Furniture Maker
Collaborations: Finn Juhl, Poul Kjærholm, Mogens Koch, Tove & Edvard Kindt-Larsen, Hans J. Wegner, Gunnar Aagaard Andersen
Story
Ivan Schlechter (1918–2018) played an important role in Danish furniture history primarily as an upholsterer and maker rather than as a furniture designer. From his apprenticeship in the 1930s, he worked with young designers and helped develop prototypes through specialist leather and upholstery work.
Bruun Rasmussen records his work with furniture by Finn Juhl, Poul Kjærholm, Mogens Koch, Tove & Edvard Kindt-Larsen, Hans J. Wegner and Gunnar Aagaard Andersen. Late in life he continued running a workshop with Ole Gjerløv-Knudsen, working with leather and upholstery almost to the end of his life.
History & Works
1918 (0 years old)
Born.
1930s
Trained as an upholsterer and became involved in prototype work with young furniture designers.
Mid-20th century
Produced and upholstered furniture for many of the leading designers and cabinetmakers of Danish furniture’s golden age.
2018 (99 years old)
Died.
Furniture
The following are examples of furniture Schlechter helped make or upholster, not designs attributed to him personally.