Brazilian Modern "Concha" Loveseat in Metal & Brass-Toned Fabric, Carlo Hauner
By Carlo Hauner
Located in New York, NY
Designed by Carlo Hauner and produced by Forma Móveis in 1955, the Concha loveseat is one of the most recognizable and sculpturally expressive seating designs of the Brazilian Modern movement. Conceived during a period of extraordinary innovation in Brazilian furniture design, the model exemplifies Hauner’s mastery of organic form, technical restraint, and architectural elegance. Named Concha—the Portuguese word for “shell”—the loveseat is distinguished by its enveloping silhouette, which appears to unfold organically around the sitter. The continuous upholstered body flows seamlessly from the backrest into the sculpted arms and generously curved seat, creating a unified volume that balances softness and structure. Viewed from any angle, the design reveals a remarkable sense of movement and fluidity, transforming a functional object into a sculptural statement. The piece rests on an elegant blackened iron base composed of slender intersecting rods. The visual lightness of the metal framework creates a striking contrast to the generous upholstered form above, emphasizing the floating quality that defines many of the finest Brazilian modernist designs of the 1950s. This sophisticated interplay between organic volume and industrial precision reflects the influence of both Italian modernism and Brazil’s emerging design identity during the postwar era. Recently reupholstered, the loveseat is presented in a richly textured brass-toned fabric that enhances the sculptural character of the design. The upholstery features a refined woven surface with subtle tonal variation, combining warm camel, antique brass, and champagne undertones. The fabric captures light beautifully, producing a gentle luster that shifts across the curved surfaces while highlighting the loveseat’s distinctive contours. Its tactile texture adds depth and visual richness while maintaining a clean, tailored appearance consistent with the original design intent. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Concha offers exceptional comfort. The deeply pitched backrest, supportive seat, and embracing arm profile create an inviting seating experience while preserving the elegant proportions for which the model is celebrated. The result is a rare balance of ergonomic comfort and architectural sophistication. Increasingly difficult to acquire, original examples of Carlo Hauner’s Concha...
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Metal Sofas
Steel
