By De Sede, Sergio Rodrigues, Percival Lafer
Located in Chattanooga, TN
An exceptional and increasingly scarce example of the Percival Lafer MP-116 modular lounge system, produced in Brazil in the 1970s and offered here as an individual seating unit. A total of four matching modules are available, an extremely rare occurrence for this model. Sets of this size, in this level of preservation, almost never reach the market. The MP-116 represents one of Lafer’s most sculptural and architecturally ambitious seating designs, defined by its distinctive pillow-block construction, deeply gathered leather upholstery, and the refined engineering that characterizes his most collectible work.
Each module is crafted from four generously padded, individually upholstered leather blocks that create the sensuous, soft geometry that has made the MP-116 one of the most coveted designs of Lafer’s career. Upholstered in a rich, dark-chocolate leather, the cushions retain their fullness and tactile depth, presenting in very good original condition with the kind of surface character and luster that collectors seek. The frames are executed in solid Brazilian Jatobá hardwood, a dense, high-value tropical species noted for its strength and warm, glowing tonality. The timber displays exceptional grain clarity and remains in outstanding condition, underscoring the longevity and craftsmanship of this early production.
The MP-116 was conceived as a genuinely forward-thinking modular system—far more sophisticated than most mid-century modular seating. A single unit makes a striking lounge chair with its sculptural massing and enveloping comfort, while multiple units can be combined into expansive sofas, balanced loveseats, long chaises, or asymmetrical compositions suited to contemporary architectural interiors. The ability to acquire four identical modules offers a level of design freedom, visual coherence, and spatial flexibility that is virtually impossible to source today. For designers and collectors working at a high level, this is an opportunity to build a complete, historically correct MP-116 suite.
This listing is for one MP-116 lounge seat, though up to four matching pieces are available. The set comes directly from the original owner and is accompanied by photocopies of the 1973 Brazil Contempo...
Category
1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer
MaterialsLeather, Fruitwood