Born in Denmark in 1921, Ib Kofod-Larsen studied at the Danish Royal Academy in Copenhagen. His career took off in 1948 when he won both the Holmegaard glass competition and the annual award from the Danish Cabinetmakers Guild. The latter recognition drew the attention of furniture manufacturer Faarup Møbelfabrik, with whom Kofod-Larsen would go on to create some of his most iconic pieces during the 1950s, including the elegant rosewood Model 66 sideboard.
Throughout his prolific career, Kofod-Larsen collaborated with a number of prominent midcentury manufacturers, both in Denmark and internationally. These included High Wycombe, Christensen & Larsen, Carlo Gahrn, Bovenkamp, Petersens, and Fredericia Furniture.
His designs are known for their clean, sculptural lines and masterful use of materials like teak, rosewood, and rich leather. Among his most notable creations is the U-56, better known as the Elizabeth Chair (1956). This graceful piece, featuring a light teak frame and leather upholstery, was reportedly named after Queen Elizabeth II after she acquired a pair during a 1958 visit to Denmark.
Another standout design is the Penguin Chair (1953), also known as the Shell. With its curved, embracing backrest, it was originally produced by Petersens and later gained wide popularity in the U.S. market through Selig, which sold thousands of versions—ranging from dining chairs to settees—in various woods and upholsteries.
Kofod-Larsen’s Sälen (or Seal) easy chairs, crafted from teak and leather for the Swedish company OPE during the 1950s, have also become increasingly sought after on the vintage market.
Ib Kofod-Larsen passed away in 2003. Today, his work is highly collectible, admired for its timeless design and his ability to highlight the natural beauty of the materials he used.