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Brazilian Space Age Sofa MP-131 , by Percival Lafer, Mid-Century Modern Design

About the Item

The MP-131 sofa by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer is an iconic piece of mid-century modern furniture design, epitomizing the era's innovative approach to form and function. Created in the 1960s, this sofa is a prime example of Lafer’s unique vision, combining robust materials, clean lines, and a sophisticated aesthetic that resonates with contemporary design enthusiasts. Crafted from jatobá wood, also known as Brazilian cherry, the MP-131 sofa exudes a sense of natural elegance and durability. Jatobá wood is celebrated for its hardness and rich reddish-brown hue, making it an ideal choice for high-quality furniture. The wood’s grain adds a subtle texture that beautifully complements the smooth, supple leather upholstery. The sofa's low, broad profile is designed for comfort and relaxation, characteristic of mid-century modernist principles. The frame’s minimalist design supports the plush leather cushions, which are meticulously tufted and tailored. The warm caramel brown leather not only offers luxurious comfort but also adds a visually rich, inviting quality to the piece. Over time, the leather develops a unique patina, enhancing its character and adding to its timeless appeal. One of the standout features of the MP-131 sofa is its innovative use of leather straps to secure the back cushions to the wooden frame. These straps are both functional and decorative, reflecting Lafer’s attention to detail and commitment to design excellence. The back view of the sofa, showcasing these straps in a neat, orderly fashion, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship involved. From a side perspective, the sofa's sturdy, angular legs provide a stable base while maintaining an airy, light appearance. The legs’ design, with their subtle taper and clean lines, aligns perfectly with the overall aesthetic, ensuring the sofa looks elegant from every angle. In the cultural context of mid-century modernist design, the MP-131 sofa represents a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modernist ideals. During the mid-20th century, designers like Lafer were exploring new ways to combine natural materials with minimalist forms, creating furniture that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This movement emphasized simplicity, organic forms, and the use of innovative materials, all of which are evident in Lafer’s work. Percival Lafer's MP-131 sofa is more than just a piece of furniture; it is a piece of design history. Its blend of natural materials, minimalist form, and functional elegance embodies the mid-century modern ethos. This sofa serves as a focal point in any interior space, bringing mid-century modern charm and sophistication. Whether placed in a contemporary living room, a retro-inspired lounge, or a stylish office, the MP-131 sofa enhances both the aesthetic and comfort of any setting. Today, the MP-131 sofa remains a sought-after piece for design aficionados and collectors of mid-century modern furniture. Its timeless design ensures it remains stylish and relevant, making it a valuable addition to any interior. Percival Lafer's dedication to innovative design and quality craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of the MP-131 sofa, making it a true testament to the enduring appeal of mid-century modern design.

Creator:

Percival Lafer (Designer)

Dimensions:

Height: 25.2 in (64 cm)Width: 72.84 in (185 cm)Depth: 35.44 in (90 cm)

Style:

Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Faux Leather,Hardwood

Place of Origin:

Brazil

Period:

Late 20th Century

Date of Manufacture:

1960's

Condition:

Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use.

Seller Location:

Sao Paulo, BR

Reference Number:

Seller: 65061stDibs: LU3173339803532

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Shop All Percival Lafer

Percival Lafer

When it comes to mid-century furniture, the innovative work of the Brazilian Modernists has often been overlooked, including the designs of prolific maker Percival Lafer. Lafer studied architecture at São Paulo’s Universidade Mackenzie. After he graduated, his father passed away suddenly, leaving a furniture business that Lafer took over with his brothers.

Taking up the mantle, Lafer made the jump from architecture to furniture design in 1961, putting a focus on thoughtfully designed pieces available at affordable prices. That year, Lafer introduced his supremely popular MP-1 chair, a plush piece of furniture made with iron and wood that he has riffed on throughout his entire career.

The silhouettes of Lafer lounge chairs, armchairs and other seating were distinct from streamlined American and European mid-century modernism, taking on casual, puffed forms thanks to his use of polyurethane layers as padding. He combined such contemporary industrial materials with local natural ones, namely Brazilian hardwoods, which delighted customers around the world as Lafer became one of the country’s leading exporters of furniture.

Lafer has continued to design furniture throughout his career, branching into sofas, tables and lighting. He was at the forefront of mechanical furniture movements, debuting the MP-7 sofa, which could turn into a twin bed, in 1965, the first such piece on the market. One of his most intriguing projects was the MP Lafer, a two-seat fiberglass roadster designed to emulate British sports cars. Some 4,300 units were produced over its 16-year manufacturing run in the ’70s and ’80s, with several ending up in the collections of major car museums.

Still, Lafer’s biggest claim to fame is his seating, which he continues to design, drawing inspiration from modern shapes and local materials. In 2017, a retrospective of his work was organized as part of the São Paulo Design Weekend.

Find vintage Percival Lafer furniture for sale on 1stDibs.