More often than not, vintage mid-century Brazilian furniture designs, with their gleaming wood, soft leathers and inviting shapes, share a sensuous, unique quality that distinguishes them from the more rectilinear output of American and Scandinavian makers of the same era.
Commencing in the 1940s and '50s, a group of architects and designers transformed the local cultural landscape in Brazil, merging the modernist vernacular popular in Europe and the United States with the South American country's traditional techniques and indigenous materials.
Key mid-century influencers on Brazilian furniture design include natives Oscar Niemeyer, Sergio Rodrigues and José Zanine Caldas as well as such European immigrants as Joaquim Tenreiro, Jean Gillon and Jorge Zalszupin. These creators frequently collaborated; for instance, Niemeyer, an internationally acclaimed architect, commissioned many of them to furnish his residential and institutional buildings.
The popularity of Brazilian modern furniture has made household names of these designers and other greats. Their particular brand of modernism is characterized by an émigré point of view (some were Lithuanian, German, Polish, Ukrainian, Portuguese, and Italian), a preference for highly figured indigenous Brazilian woods, a reverence for nature as an inspiration and an atelier or small-production mentality.
Hallmarks of Brazilian mid-century design include smooth, sculptural forms and the use of native woods like rosewood, jacaranda and pequi. The work of designers today exhibits many of the same qualities, though with a marked interest in exploring new materials (witness the Campana Brothers' stuffed-animal chairs) and an emphasis on looking inward rather than to other countries for inspiration.
Find a collection of vintage Brazilian furniture on 1stDibs that includes chairs, sofas, tables and more.
1960s Antique Large Penca De Balangandan Afro-American Amulet Tinplate, Brazil
Located in Andernach, DE
Absolutely unique very large creole 'Penca De Balangandan' from Brazil from around 1960. Tin base, possibly silver plated. Traditional slave amule...
Tin
Brazilian Amazonian Marajoara Style Art Pottery Vessel Brazil R Cardoso
Located in London, GB
Brazilian Amazonian Marajoara Style Art Pottery Vessel Brazil R Cardoso An original signed work by R. Cardoso, produced in the renowned ceramic center of Icoaraci, Pará. This hand-c...
Pottery
$16,387Sale Price|33% Off
A large painting by Moacir Andrade, Brazil, 1960s "A Lenda Do Pacu"
By Moacir Andrade
Located in London, GB
A large stunning painting from the legendary Amazonian artist Moacir Andrade "A Lenda Do Pacu" (The legend of the Pacu) Acrylic on canvas depicting a central Pacu which is a lar...
Canvas, Acrylic, Wood
Brazilian Brass Amulet 'Penca de Balangadas', Antique Folk Art, 1940
Located in Barcelona, ES
Early 20th Century Brazilian Metal Hanging Amulet 'Penca de Balangadas' – Circa 1940 Discover the captivating history behind this early 20th-century metal hanging amulet, known as '...
Brass
Late 19th Century Brazilian Shrine Altar Household Oratory
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
A striking and highly theatrical architectural fragment, this monumental hand-painted structure evokes the romance of Brazilian folk baroque and the dreamlike exuberance of a ceremonial chapel façade. Crafted entirely in wood and adorned with richly stylized floral urns, symbolic religious motifs, and vibrant geometric ornamentation, the piece possesses an extraordinary naïve sophistication that feels simultaneously sacred and fantastical. Its symmetrical composition — crowned by twin towers and a central pediment bearing the image of the Holy Spirit dove...
Cedar
Taukana Regui Wauja. Ceramic Kamalu hai Snake Canoe I, 2024
Located in PARIS, FR
Taukana Regui Wauja Ceramic Kamalu hai Snake Canoe I, 2024 Ceramics and natural pigment This handbuilt ceramic sculpture by Taukana Regui Wauja, an Indigenous artist from the Wauja ...
Ceramic, Terracotta
$8,500 / set
31 Brazilian Silver Amulets
Located in New York, NY
These 31 Brazilian amulets, or balangada, were hammered from sheets of silver in the 19th century to form pomegranates, sugar apples, guava, and other...
Silver
Rare Silver Balangandãs - 20th Century Brazilian Native Hanging Amulet
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
Mid 20th century brazilian silver hanging amulet from native culture in Brazil. Known as "Penca de Balangandãs" was used in the ancient times as an amul...
Sterling Silver
20th Century Shipibo Pot
Located in Chicago, IL
A striking 20th century Amazonian Shipibo pot hand-built from clay, decorated with wide red and orange lines, and glazed with the sap of a tree. Members of...
Clay
Amazonian Feather Storage Basket
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Feather storage basket Rikbaktsa Tribe, Jurene River, Mato Grosso, Brazil 1990 Plaited fiber, wood, feathers, twined natural fiber, and cotton. 5 inche...
Other
Vintage Brazilian Hand-Carved Ironwood Sculpture of Whale and a Shark
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Vintage Brazilian hand carved Ironwood sculpture of a whale and a shark. Hand carved Brazilian sculpture hand crafted in amazing detail from one of...
Wood
Rare 18th Century Painted Shrine
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
This magnificent 18th-century Brazilian shrine, originating from Minas Gerais, is a stunning example of Colonial baroque religious craftsmanship. Crafted from wood and adorned with h...
Wood
15th Century or Earlier Redware Tangas, Marajoara Culture, Marajo Island, Brazil
Located in Point Richmond, CA
15th Century or Earlier Redware Tangas, Marajoara culture, Marajo Island, Brazil Tangas are thin concave triangular ceramic pubic covers found in burial mounds associated with fem...
Earthenware
Taukana Regui Wauja. Ceramic Yerupoho Piece, 2024
Located in PARIS, FR
Taukana Regui Wauja Ceramic Yerupoho Piece, 2024 Ceramics and natural pigment This handbuilt ceramic sculpture by Taukana Regui Wauja, an Indigenous artist from the Wauja community ...
Ceramic, Terracotta
Magnificent 18th-Century Brazilian Shrine - Minas Gerais Colonial Cabinet
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
Magnificent 18th-Century Brazilian Shrine - Minas Gerais Colonial Devotional Cabinet A rare and evocative piece of Brazilian colonial history, this 18th-century wooden shrine from M...
Wood
$3,500
Carved Stone Parrot
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Carved stone bird with curious expression and brass feet presented on Quartz geode specimen.
Stone
Ancient Amazonian Ritual Mask, Late 19th – Early 20th Century, Brazil
Located in Bilzen, BE
Antique Amazonian ritual mask, carved and polychromed wood Ritual mask carved and hollowed by hand from light wood, originating from the western Amazon basin, most likely Brazil (Br...
Wood
Vintage 1950s Spanish Fabric Artwork with Cowbells for Hanging
Located in Barcelona, ES
Hanging traditional Spanish fabric artwork decorated with cowbells. Made in Spain by unknown artist, circa 1950. In original condition, wear consistent with age and use, pr...
Metal
Brazilian Bloco da Lama mask Paraty, Brazil 1980's
Located in Diest, BE
Authentic piece of Brazilian carnival heritage with this original 1980s Bloco da Lama mask from Paraty, Brazil. Bloco da Lama ("Mud Block") is one of Paraty's most iconic and exuber...
Paint, Paper
Rare Silver Balangandãs - 20th Century Brazilian Native Hanging Amulet
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
Mid 20th century brazilian silver hanging amulet from native culture in Brazil. Known as "Penca de Balangandãs" was used in the ancient times as an amul...
Sterling Silver
Taukana Regui Wauja. Ceramic Kamalu hai Snake Canoe II, 2024
Located in PARIS, FR
"Kamalu hai (Snake Canoe) II" by Taukana Regui Wauja, 2024 This handbuilt ceramic sculpture by Taukana Regui Wauja, an Indigenous artist from the Wauja community in Brazil’s Xingu Te...
Ceramic, Terracotta
Mixed Materials Wall Decoration Sculpture by Johannes Wilhelmus Van Dartelen
By Johannes Wilhelmus van Dartelen
Located in Buffalo, NY
Johannes Wilhelmus Van Dartelen copper art fossilized stone signed Brazil made and presented for the crew of the Pan American. This is a one of a kind piece of art by Johannes...
Stone, Copper
19th Century Pipe Head
Located in Vosselaar, BE
You just got to love this guy! A wacky looking bearded Indian pipe head. Probably 19th century France. Beautifully carved by a artisan with a sense of humor.
Wood
$3,200
H 25.75 in W 7 in D 5.5 in
African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota Mohongwe Peoples Art
Located in Miami, FL
A fantastically hand-crafted piece by the Kota (or Bakota) tribe who are located in the northeastern region of Gabon. This figure, which is a Mahongwe reliquary figure as exhibited with its truncated almond-shaped face, is made of wound copper, hammered brass and wood. Reliquary figures were used as guardians to protect the revered bones of venerated family ancestors and leaders and ward off unwanted spirits. These figures are meant to embody intense powers and were also commonly used in communal rites and ritual performances. This particular piece came from an American collector who traveled the African continent and collected African artifacts for over 50 years. This piece has a beautiful, organically aged patina acquired naturally over time and use. It is mounted on a custom wooden display stand. We believe it dates back to the early to mid-1900s but could be older. We are listing as 20th century because we did not have it appraised. This African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota (Bakota) Mohongwe Peoples decorative art would clearly stand out as part of a collection or by itself in any setting. Truly unique, eye-catching and engaging. Dimensions on stand: 25 3/4" High, 7" Wide, 5 1/2" Deep Kota Reliquary...
Brass, Copper
Ethiopian Milk Vessel
Located in Chicago, IL
The Borana Oromo people of southern Ethiopia and northern Kenya are historically a cattle-keeping culture, and each household keeps a number of traditional vessels for storing and ch...
Other
Tribal Plank Art
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Unique tribal plank art with metal base. The piece features a 5.5' tall wooden plank with a colored ornate fish design. Great conversation piece for any space.
Metal
Large Buffalo Skull with Native American Foot Print
Located in Asheville, NC
This Extra Large buffalo skull features black horns decorated with two red foot prints. It skull has a natural rustic beauty. The red animal footprints o...
Rare Silver Balangandãs - 20th Century Brazilian Native Hanging Amulet
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
Mid 20th century brazilian silver hanging amulet from native culture in Brazil. Known as "Penca de Balangandãs" was used in the ancient times as an amul...
Sterling Silver
19th Century Wooden Rocking Horse
Located in Sheffield, MA
The 19th century charming and rustic rocking horse now mounted on two straight boards is made of handcrafted wood pieces cleverly assembled, and has a leather saddle, reins and stirrups. A great addition for those who collect Early American country antiques...
Wood
Sculptural Ceramic Planter with Classical Faces, Europe
Located in BORGO, FR
Remarkable ceramic planter featuring a continuous frieze of boldly modeled bearded faces inspired by classical and mythological iconography. Each visage emerges in high relief around...
Ceramic
$1,552Sale Price|35% Off
H 41.34 in W 22.84 in D 3.15 in
Superb large antique Maasai shield Tribal Art East Africa
Located in London, GB
Superb Large Antique Maasai Shield – East Africa Origin: Kenya/Tanzania, East Africa Culture: Maasai Period: early 20th century Material: Hide, natural pigments, and wood Dimensio...
Hardwood
$450
H 5.91 in W 1.97 in D 1.58 in
Mexican Nativity Set Folk Art Ceramic Christmas Decoration Pottery Sculptures
By Aurelio Martinez Flores
Located in Queretaro, Queretaro
Folkloric ceramic nativity set decorated in Tonalá, Jalisco, México. Beautifully hand painted. Handmade in clay. Includes 14 figures. The figures are first handmade in clay and burned in a wood burned oven at low temperature, then painted with acrylic paint and decorated manually. Mexican folk art...
Ceramic
$375
H 7.88 in W 7.09 in D 7.88 in
Pre Columbian Ancient Pedestal bowl Charci / Nariño Latin American Antiques
Located in London, GB
PRE COLUMBIAN ANCIENT SOUTH AMERICAN FINE NARINO CARCHI PEDESTAL BOWL CIRCA 1100-1400 COLOMBIA ECUADOR A HAND MODELED POTTERY BOWL FROM THE CARCHI / NARINO BORDER REGIONS OF ECUAD...
Pottery
$3,800
H 19.5 in W 7.75 in D 7.5 in
18th/19th Century Spanish Colonial Carved Polychrome Wood Santo Altar Sculpture
Located in Forney, TX
A most impressive antique Spanish Colonial hand carved polychromed wood Santo Catholic church altar figure. circa 1800 Hand-crafted in the late 18th / early 19th century, exceptionally executed intricate detailing, the large scale antique religious sculpture depicting the female Saint Teresa of Avila, polychrome painted gesso over finely sculpted wood, inset glass eyes, shown in Carmelite nun habit...
Gesso, Wood, Paint
Sculpture of an Owl in Resin, Abraham Palatinik, 1960 - Lot 738
By Abraham Palatnik
Located in New York, NY
This sculpture in resin of an owl is part of the Artemis collection that features hundreds of different animals, each with sleek, flat silhouettes. Original label on bottom. So if yo...
Epoxy Resin
Sold
H 22.45 in W 39.38 in D 9.85 in
Large Vintage Papier-Mâché Tiger Sculpture, Folk Art Style, 1970s – Hand-Painted
Located in BARCELONA, ES
A striking and whimsical large vintage papier-mâché tiger sculpture, crafted circa 1970s in a bold folk art style. This expressive piece features a dynamic stance, hand-painted strip...
Paper
Rare Brazilian Colonial 18th Century Shrine
Located in Rio De Janeiro, BR
18th-Century Brazilian Devotional Shrine from Minas Gerais A rare and historically significant 18th-century Brazilian devotional shrine from Minas Gerais, an exceptional piece of col...
Wood
Brazilian Wai Wai Tribal Cassava Graters Circa 1945 Pair
Located in Dallas, TX
Brazilian Wei Wei Casava Graters Two graters constructed of wood and sharpened rock used by the Wai Wai Indigenous tribe of Northern Brazil to process raw Cas...
Stone
Sold
H 1.97 in W 13.39 in D 19.69 in
Vintage Brazilian Inlaid Tray Morpho Butterfly Wings C 1940'S Home décor
Located in London, GB
A fine vintage marquetry inlaid hard wood tray with dazzling geometric patterns made from the wings of the brilliant iridescent Blue Morpho butterfly...
Wood, Hardwood
Sold
H 5.1 in W 3.5 in D 0.6 in
Brazilian Modern Kinetic Sculpture of a Whale in Resin, Abraham Palatinik, 1960s
By Abraham Palatnik
Located in New York, NY
This Brazilian modern kinetic sculpture of a whale in resin was designed by Abraham Palatinik in the 1960s. This is part of the Artemis collection that features hundreds of different...
Resin, Polyester
Kayapo 1 Headdress with Natural Feathers
Located in Paris, FR
Headdress Kayapo 1 with natural feathers and with cotton frame. Under glass with black wooden frame. From Kayapo ethnic tribe, particularly from Mekragnoti tribe. From Rio Chiche...
Feathers
Kayapo 4 Headdress with Natural Feathers
Located in Paris, FR
Headdress Kayapo 4 with natural feathers and with cotton frame. Under glass with black wooden frame. From Kayapo ethnic tribe, particularly from Mekragnoti tribe. From Rio Chiche...
Feathers
Kayapo 3 Headdress with Natural Feathers
Located in Paris, FR
Headdress Kayapo 3 with natural feathers and with cotton frame. Under glass with black wooden frame. From Kayapo ethnic tribe, particularly from Mekragnoti tribe. From Rio Chiche,...
Feathers
Kayapo 2 Headdress with Natural Feathers
Located in Paris, FR
Headdress Kayapo 2 with natural feathers and with cotton frame. Under glass with black wooden frame. From Kayapo ethnic tribe, particularly from Mekragnoti tribe. From Rio Chiche,...
Feathers
Vintage Brazilian Hand-carved Ironwood Sculpture of a Toucan
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Vintage Brazilian hand carved Ironwood sculpture of a toucan. Hand carved Brazilian toucan bird sculpture with glass eyes. Hand crafted in amazin...
Wood
Yanomami Gathering Basket
Located in Chicago, IL
A 20th century Yanomami gathering basket decorated with charcoal line drawings on the exterior. This basket is tightly handwoven of natural fibers wi...
Natural Fiber
At Waddesdon Manor, artist Joana Vasconcelos has installed a three-tiered patisserie inspired by the narrative tile work of her homeland. We take a look at the cake sculpture and how Portuguese tiles have been used in architecture from the 17th century to today.
The streets of fin-de-siècle Paris were set aglow with colorful poster ads, thanks to the printing techniques invented by Jules Chéret. Now, the Milwaukee Art Museum is celebrating this undersung talent in America's first solo show dedicated his exuberant works.
Expert Jeff Bridgman explains the history and meaning behind the twinkling constellations that have graced Old Glory.
The iconoclastic style setter displayed African and Oceanic art, as well as works by indigenous peoples of the Americas, alongside pieces by such major modernists as Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock.
Perfect for July 4th weekend, a new show at Philadelphia's Museum of the American Revolution displays an array of antique red, white and blue flags.
Designers are beginning to see this enigmatic form of folk art in a whole new light.