1950's Brazilian Sofa Attributed to Giuseppe Scapinelli

About the Item

The sofa attributed to Giuseppe Scapinelli is unique and special due to its exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and the rich artistic heritage of its creator. Made of caviuna wood, the sofa's structure showcases Scapinelli's skillful manipulation of this luxurious Brazilian hardwood to create a distinctive form that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The arms of the sofa are particularly noteworthy, exhibiting a unique, flowing shape that highlights Scapinelli's ability to blend dynamic lines with classical elegance. The seats, covered in white fabric, provide a striking contrast to the rich tones of the caviuna wood, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the piece. Giuseppe Scapinelli, born in Modena, Italy, in 1911, hailed from a noble Italian family and graduated in architecture in 1941. His move to São Paulo in 1948 marked the beginning of a fruitful period in his career, during which he worked for Francesco Matarazzo, a prominent Italo-Brazilian businessman. Scapinelli's involvement with influential figures and prominent families in São Paulo allowed him to blend European classical principles with modern Brazilian aesthetics. In 1950, he established his own agency, where he promoted a modern style that remained deeply rooted in the classical traditions he had mastered in Italy. Scapinelli's design philosophy is beautifully encapsulated in this sofa, which combines classical craftsmanship with modern, streamlined aesthetics. Described in the 1954 issue of Casa & Jardim as “a classic that remembers to be modern – or, if you prefer, a modernist who doesn’t forget to be classic,” Scapinelli's work reflects his unique ability to integrate traditional and contemporary elements seamlessly. The sofa’s caviuna wood structure, with its flowing lines and refined craftsmanship, exemplifies this duality. Throughout his career, Scapinelli was known for his remarkable quality of craftsmanship, which is evident in the meticulous construction and elegant design of this sofa. His attention to detail and dedication to fine craftsmanship ensured that each piece he created was not only visually stunning but also built to last. This sofa, with its unique shape and luxurious materials, stands as a testament to Scapinelli's legacy as a designer who successfully bridged the gap between classical and modern design. In conclusion, the sofa attributed to Giuseppe Scapinelli is unique and special because it embodies the harmonious blend of classical and modern design principles, exceptional craftsmanship, and the rich cultural heritage of its creator. The use of caviuna wood, the innovative shape of the arms, and the elegant white fabric seats make it a standout piece that reflects Scapinelli's enduring influence in the world of mid-century modern furniture design.

Attributed to:

Giuseppe Scapinelli (Designer)

Dimensions:

Height: 31.11 in (79 cm)Width: 57.88 in (147 cm)Depth: 31.11 in (79 cm)

Materials and Techniques:

Fabric,Wood

Place of Origin:

Brazil

Period:

1950-1959

Date of Manufacture:

Circa 1950