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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
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

Zanine José Caldas Style off Articulated Bench in Teak Wood and Rope
Zanine José Caldas Style off Articulated Bench in Teak Wood and Rope

Zanine José Caldas Style off Articulated Bench in Teak Wood and Rope

By José Zanine Caldas

Located in Grenoble, FR

Folding and articulated bench in teak wood and rope, production of the 1960s from Brazil in the style of Zanine Caldas' creations.         

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Cord, Teak

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

Related Items
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

$14,000 / 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

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

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

José Zanine Caldas, Lounge Chair, Imbuia Plywood, Leather, Brazil, 1950s
José Zanine Caldas, Lounge Chair, Imbuia Plywood, Leather, Brazil, 1950s

José Zanine Caldas, Lounge Chair, Imbuia Plywood, Leather, Brazil, 1950s

By José Zanine Caldas, Mòveis Artisticos Z

Located in High Point, NC

A lounge chair designed by José Zanine Caldas for Mòveis Artísticos Z, Brazil, in 1949. It features Imbuia plywood, brass, and black-dyed leather webbing. Wood frame presents with l...

Category

1940s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Imbuia

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

PAIR OF JOSE ZANINE CALDAS STYLE DANISH WALNUT WOVEN LEATHER CHAISE LOUNGE CHAiR
PAIR OF JOSE ZANINE CALDAS STYLE DANISH WALNUT WOVEN LEATHER CHAISE LOUNGE CHAiR

PAIR OF JOSE ZANINE CALDAS STYLE DANISH WALNUT WOVEN LEATHER CHAISE LOUNGE CHAiR

By José Zanine Caldas

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this pair of Jose Zanine Caldas style Danish Walnut & Woven Leather Reclined chaise lounge chairs Plea...

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Walnut

1970s MP-91 / MP-163 Earth Sofa by Percival Lafer in leather and hardwood
1970s MP-91 / MP-163 Earth Sofa by Percival Lafer in leather and hardwood

1970s MP-91 / MP-163 Earth Sofa by Percival Lafer in leather and hardwood

By Percival Lafer

Located in Victoria, BC

Designed by Percival Lafer during the 1970s, the MP-91 / MP-163 “Earth” sofa remains one of the most recognizable and comfortable seating designs produced during the golden era of Brazilian modernism. The design combines structural clarity with an unusually relaxed and immersive seating experience, reflecting Lafer’s unique ability to merge engineering, ergonomics, and material expression. The sofa is constructed around a robust Brazilian hardwood frame that creates a suspended visual effect, where the upholstered body appears to float lightly above the base structure. The proportions are low and architectural, while the generous cushioning and suspended support system create a remarkably comfortable sit. Lafer approached seating with a strong emphasis on long-term comfort and practical construction, qualities that became central to his international success during the 1970s export period. This example has been fully reupholstered in high-quality Spinneybeck leather, a material widely recognized for its durability and refined surface quality. The arm cushions feature an uncommon pillow configuration. While this may represent a later upholstery interpretation introduced during restoration, similar variations were also seen in certain export-market configurations produced through Brazil Contempo...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Hardwood

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972

$7,000

H 28.35 in W 37.8 in D 36.23 in

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” armchair by Percival Lafer 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 cushion 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 cushion 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

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, Black Leather, 1972
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, Black Leather, 1972

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, Black Leather, 1972

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, wood and black leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” armchair by Percival Lafer embraces fluidity with a structure that appears weightless ...

Category

1970s Post-Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer, MP-01 Sofa, Velvet, Brazil, 1960s
Percival Lafer, MP-01 Sofa, Velvet, Brazil, 1960s

Percival Lafer, MP-01 Sofa, Velvet, Brazil, 1960s

$36,546

H 28.75 in W 84.26 in D 26.38 in

Percival Lafer, MP-01 Sofa, Velvet, Brazil, 1960s

By Percival Lafer

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Percival Lafer MP-01 Sofa Velvet, Wood, Iron Brazil, 1960s Offered by RAFA gallery

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Iron

José Zanine Caldas easy chair for Móveis Artísticos Z
José Zanine Caldas easy chair for Móveis Artísticos Z

José Zanine Caldas easy chair for Móveis Artísticos Z

$8,500

H 31.89 in W 23.23 in D 31.11 in

José Zanine Caldas easy chair for Móveis Artísticos Z

By José Zanine Caldas

Located in Tomi, Nagano

easy chair manufactured by Móveis Artísticos Z designed by José Zanine Caldas. plywood with wool fabric by Kvadrat. This chair gives a glimpse of the designer's intentions.

Category

1950s Modern Vintage Brazilian Canapes

Materials

Hardwood, Wool, Pine, Plywood

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 Percival Lafer, Jean Gillon

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