Borge Morgenson 

Many think that Mogensen’s chairs are based on Shaker prototypes. His “J39,” a wooden, four-legged, single slat backed design is a good example. It resembles the “low ladder back” chairs of Shaker origin. Additionally, Mogensen’s “trestle table” complements his chairs, and is called by Christian Becksvoort a “redefined Shaker classic.” These designs were related to Mogensen’s involvement with the Danish Cooperative Wholesale Societies’ efforts to create simple, attractive furniture for everyday use. This type of furniture was very popular among people who were not interested in designs exhibiting significant modernist influences. Other of his work is also worth noting like the “Spanish” chair, which was praised for its style. Thus, Mogensen was a significant interpreter of the traditional forms even in the midst of modernizing and revolutionary changes in production and design.