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Brazilian Canapes

BRAZILIAN FURNITURE

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 NiemeyerSergio Rodrigues and José Zanine Caldas as well as such European immigrants as Joaquim TenreiroJean 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 rosewoodjacaranda 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 chairssofastables and more.

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Place of Origin: Brazilian
Celina Zilberberg, Three-seater sofa in solid wood, c. 1960
Celina Zilberberg, Three-seater sofa in solid wood, c. 1960

Celina Zilberberg, Three-seater sofa in solid wood, c. 1960

By Celina Moveis, Celina Decoracoes

Located in PARIS, FR

Celina Zilberberg Three-seater sofa, c. 1960 Solid wood and fabric 76 x 212.5 x 86 cm 29 23/25 x 83 33/50 x 33 43/50 in Created during the great decade of Brazilian Design, the 1960...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Fabric, Hardwood

MP 123 modular sofa by Percival Lafer
MP 123 modular sofa by Percival Lafer

MP 123 modular sofa by Percival Lafer

By Percival Lafer

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

Rare banquette modulable par Percival Lafer vers 1973. Splendide qualité d’éxécution,

Category

1970s Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Stainless Steel

Peteca Contemporary Chair
Peteca Contemporary Chair

Peteca Contemporary Chair

By Cultivado em Casa

Located in Floresta, MG

The history of peteca (shuttlecock) is genuinely Brazilian. Name given to both sport and artifact, peteca has indigenous origin, a creation of the natives that inhabited the territor...

Category

2010s Arts and Crafts Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Steel

Jean Gillon, 2-seater sofa, c. 1970. 77 x 150 x 84 cm
Jean Gillon, 2-seater sofa, c. 1970. 77 x 150 x 84 cm

Jean Gillon, 2-seater sofa, c. 1970. 77 x 150 x 84 cm

By Probel, Jean Gillon

Located in PARIS, FR

Jean Gillon Two-Seater Sofa, c. 1970 Label: Probel This two-seater sofa by Jean Gillon, created circa 1970 for the manufacturer Probel, reflects the designer’s signature blend of sc...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Upholstery, Hardwood

Related Items
Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970
Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970

Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970

$6,265 / set

H 36.23 in W 31.5 in D 32.68 in

Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970

By Percival Lafer

Located in Vigevano, PV

The MP-91 armchair, designed by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer, features a solid Jatoba wood frame and cognac-colored leather upholstery.

Category

1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood

Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer
Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer

Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer

$22,000 / set

H 26.38 in W 32.49 in D 29.53 in

Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer

By Percival Lafer

Located in São Paulo, BR

In the world of design, Percival Lafer was a visionary dedicated to enhancing both comfort and aesthetics. His innovation led to the creation of the dual MP-97 lounge chairs, which e...

Category

Late 20th Century Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Wood

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2

$16,800 / set

H 28.35 in W 37.8 in D 36.23 in

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” armchairs for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” armchairs by Percival Lafer embrace fluidity with a structure that appears weightless despite their solid wood frames. The absence of visible crossbars beneath the seat enhances this effect, allowing the thick, tufted cushions to seemingly float. The upholstery drapes over the structure like silk fabric on a sculpted form, a harmonious integration of material and frame. The butterfly-shaped joints refine the frame’s construction, tapering toward the center for a softened profile. The lateral tufting on the seat is not merely decorative—it creates a structured geometry that follows the contours of the body. The armrests, backrest, and seat merge into a single, uninterrupted form, maximizing ergonomic support. Leather straps secure the cushions to the frame, a signature Lafer detail that blends artisanal technique with industrial efficiency. The MP-41 prioritizes organic curves over strict geometric lines. The deep cognac leather, aged to a rich patina, enhances the warmth of the wood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon...

Category

1970s Post-Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood

Modern Mel Boucle Lounge Chair, Velvet Pearl, Handmade in Portugal by Greenapple
Modern Mel Boucle Lounge Chair, Velvet Pearl, Handmade in Portugal by Greenapple

Modern Mel Boucle Lounge Chair, Velvet Pearl, Handmade in Portugal by Greenapple

By Greenapple

Located in Lisboa, PT

Modern Mel Bouclé Armchair, Contemporary Collection, Handcrafted in Portugal - Europe by Greenapple. The Mel lounge chair embodies the warmth and richness of nature’s purest and swe...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Brass

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Living Room Set for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 3
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Living Room Set for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 3

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Living Room Set for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 3

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” living room set for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972, set of 3 The “MP-41” living room set by Percival Lafer, composed of a sofa and two armchairs, embraces fluidity with a structure that appears weightless despite its solid wood frame. The absence of visible crossbars beneath the seat enhances this effect, allowing the thick, tufted cushions to seemingly float. The upholstery drapes over the structure like silk fabric on a sculpted form, a harmonious integration of material and frame. The butterfly-shaped joints refine the frame’s construction, tapering toward the center for a softened profile. The lateral tufting on the seat is not merely decorative—it creates a structured geometry that follows the contours of the body. The armrests, backrest, and seat merge into a single, uninterrupted form, maximizing ergonomic support. Leather straps secure the cushions to the frame, a signature Lafer detail that blends artisanal technique with industrial efficiency. The MP-41 prioritizes organic curves over strict geometric lines. The deep cognac leather, aged to a rich patina, enhances the warmth of the wood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon’s “Tijuca...

Category

1970s Post-Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood

Sosa Two Seater Brown Teddy Sofa
Sosa Two Seater Brown Teddy Sofa

Sosa Two Seater Brown Teddy Sofa

$5,980

H 31.5 in W 66.93 in D 33.86 in

Sosa Two Seater Brown Teddy Sofa

By LAGU, LAGU

Located in İSTANBUL, TR

With its monolithic structure and its perfect integration with the floor it is on, the Sosa sofa offers an image that is different from the usual form and appearance that includes yo...

Category

2010s Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Bouclé, Upholstery, Foam, Hardwood

Classic And Luxurious Lawson Style Club Chair
Classic And Luxurious Lawson Style Club Chair

Classic And Luxurious Lawson Style Club Chair

$750Sale Price|59% Off

H 32 in W 34 in D 32 in

Classic And Luxurious Lawson Style Club Chair

Located in Bronx, NY

Classic and luxurious Lawson style club chair in a rich Neo-Indian inspired fabric arm height is 26"

Category

Late 20th Century Brazilian Canapes

Sofa MP-163, by Percival Lafer, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Design
Sofa MP-163, by Percival Lafer, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Design

Sofa MP-163, by Percival Lafer, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Design

By Percival Lafer

Located in Sao Paulo, SP

Crafted by the renowned master Percival Lafer in 1970, this exceptional piece of furniture boasts a striking and comfortable design. Its clean lines and unique details, such as elega...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Steel

Stouby Møbelfabrik, Mid Century 3-Seater Sofa in Brown Leather, Made in 1970s
Stouby Møbelfabrik, Mid Century 3-Seater Sofa in Brown Leather, Made in 1970s

Stouby Møbelfabrik, Mid Century 3-Seater Sofa in Brown Leather, Made in 1970s

By Stouby Polster Møbelfabrik, Mogens Hansen, Børge Mogensen

Located in Odense, DK

A classic Danish Mordern 3-seater sofa in brown leather, feets made in solid beech. Simple lines and a great comfort featured in this sofa. Designed by Stouby Møbelfabrik, Denmark. M...

Category

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Beech

Percival Lafer Leather Patchwork Modular Sofas ca' 1960's Living Room
Percival Lafer Leather Patchwork Modular Sofas ca' 1960's Living Room

Percival Lafer Leather Patchwork Modular Sofas ca' 1960's Living Room

By Percival Lafer

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

A rare set of six (6) seats and six (6) back rests by Percival Lafer. Brazil, ca' 1960's imported to New York. Made of patchwork brown leather where the pieces can be arranged in dif...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather

Mid-20th Century, Swedish Three Seater Sofa in Pine by Carl Malmsten, 1960s
Mid-20th Century, Swedish Three Seater Sofa in Pine by Carl Malmsten, 1960s

Mid-20th Century, Swedish Three Seater Sofa in Pine by Carl Malmsten, 1960s

By Carl Malmsten, O.H. Sjögren

Located in Odense, DK

This stunning three-seater sofa is designed by Carl Malmsten and produced by O.H. Sjögren, dating from the 1960s. The model, Visingsö, is a celebrated example of Swedish mid-century ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Wool, Pine

Previously Available Items
Mid-Century Modern Marquesa by Oscar and Anna Maria Niemeyer, Brazil, 1970s
Mid-Century Modern Marquesa by Oscar and Anna Maria Niemeyer, Brazil, 1970s

Mid-Century Modern Marquesa by Oscar and Anna Maria Niemeyer, Brazil, 1970s

By Oscar Niemeyer, Anna Maria Niemeyer

Located in Deerfield Beach, FL

Mid-Century Modern Marquesa by Brazilian designers Oscar and Anna Maria Niemeyer, Brazil, 1970s The celebrated architect Oscar Niemeyer, best known for his iconic design of civic bu...

Category

1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Cane, Plywood

Sofa by percival Lafer
Sofa by percival Lafer

Sofa by percival Lafer

Sold

H 33.47 in W 82.68 in D 33.47 in

Sofa by percival Lafer

By Percival Lafer

Located in Paris, FR

3 seats sofa by the brazilian architect Percival Lafer. Reupholstery in a green bouclé.

Category

Late 20th Century Organic Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Wood

Vintage Brazilian Three-Seater Sofa in Cognac Brown Leather by Jean Gillon
Vintage Brazilian Three-Seater Sofa in Cognac Brown Leather by Jean Gillon

Vintage Brazilian Three-Seater Sofa in Cognac Brown Leather by Jean Gillon

By Jean Gillon, Percival Lafer

Located in Ranst, VAN

Brazilian vintage three-seater sofa with the original cognac leather upholstery. The sofa is in very good condition. There is also a matching lounge cha...

Category

Mid-20th Century Brutalist Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood

Rare Large Sofa Percival Lafer MP 211 Leather Camel Brazilian Design 60's
Rare Large Sofa Percival Lafer MP 211 Leather Camel Brazilian Design 60's

Rare Large Sofa Percival Lafer MP 211 Leather Camel Brazilian Design 60's

By Percival Lafer

Located in Ternay, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

3 seater sofa from the 60's by the famous Brazilian designer Percival Lafer, model MP211. Structure in solid Jacaranda wood, seat in original camel leather. Beautiful model of this s...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood

Mustard Yellow Leather Three-Seater Sofa by Percival Lafer, model 'MP-81'
Mustard Yellow Leather Three-Seater Sofa by Percival Lafer, model 'MP-81'

Mustard Yellow Leather Three-Seater Sofa by Percival Lafer, model 'MP-81'

By Lafer, Percival Lafer

Located in Aartselaar, BE

Rare Brazilian sofa in mustard leather and solid jacaranda wooden legs. Model 'MP81' designed around 1960s by Percival Lafer. In beautiful original condition, very nice patina. The ...

Category

1960s Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood, Jacaranda

Three-Seater Sofa by Brazilian Designer Percival Lafer Design Leather
Three-Seater Sofa by Brazilian Designer Percival Lafer Design Leather

Three-Seater Sofa by Brazilian Designer Percival Lafer Design Leather

By Percival Lafer

Located in Ternay, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Three seater sofa from the 60's by the Brazilian designer Percival Lafer. Structure in solid Jacaranda, seat and straps in original green leath...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Jacaranda

Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Sofa by Percival Lafer Model MP-81, 1960s
Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Sofa by Percival Lafer Model MP-81, 1960s

Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Sofa by Percival Lafer Model MP-81, 1960s

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lucenec, SK

Beautiful sofa by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer. This sofa consists of a solid dark wooden base to which the leather seating is attached. The sturdy legs are tapered and placed s...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Faux Leather, Wood

Liceu de Artes e Oficios Three-Seat Sofa, circa 1960, Brazil
Liceu de Artes e Oficios Three-Seat Sofa, circa 1960, Brazil

Liceu de Artes e Oficios Three-Seat Sofa, circa 1960, Brazil

By Liceu de Artes e Ofícios

Located in Brussels, BE

Very nice Liceu de Artes e Oficios three-seat sofa, circa 1960, Brazil. Jacaranda wood frame, brass and new ivory fabric. Dimensions: 190 cm W, 74 cm D, 74 cm D, seat height 43 cm. G...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Fabric, Jacaranda

Embaú Bench by Hugo França
Embaú Bench by Hugo França

Embaú Bench by Hugo França

Sold

H 28.3 in W 57.4 in D 32.2 in

Embaú Bench by Hugo França

By Hugo França

Located in Deerfield Beach, FL

This bench is a unique piece in pequi wood made in Brazil in 2016 by contemporary designer Hugo França, famous for his sculptural furniture using reclaimed...

Category

2010s Post-Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Wood, Reclaimed Wood