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.
Solid Imbuia with Red Glass Top Dining Table by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brazil C. 1949
By Langbach & Tenreiro, Joaquim Tenreiro
Located in New York, NY
Restored.
Glass, Imbuia, Wood
Jorge Zalszupin 'Guaruja' Rosewood Vintage Dining Table, 1960s, Brazil
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in New York, NY
The iconic Guarujá is a table designed by Jorge Zalszupin (1922-2020) in 1959 and produced by his company, L'atelier. A rosewood patchwork top rests over one concrete base finished with leather. This patchwork solution is present in other pieces designed by Zalszupin. Modern design taught us about using the material rationally, having the design as a tool to avoid waste. Aesthetically, the patchwork explores the different tones of the Brazilian rosewood beautifully, achieving a unique result. At the time, the Guanabara table was presented as a dynamic piece that could be used in the corporate spaces (as a meeting...
Concrete
Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Dining Table by Carlo Hauner & Martin Eisler, 1950
By Martin Eisler, Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler, Carlo Hauner
Located in New York, NY
Designed by Martin Eisler in the 1950s, this ingenious table was conceived to maximize space and functionality, assuming two distinct configurations. In its standard position, it ser...
Rosewood
Expandable Dining Table in Caviuna by Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler, circa 1955
By Carlo Hauner, Martin Eisler, Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler
Located in New York, NY
Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler are most known for well-shaped armchairs made in iron, but the production is far more complex, handcrafted, and extensive. The wood pieces produced by ...
Wood
Jorge Zalszupin 'Guanabara' Rosewood Vintage Dining Table, 1960s, Brazil
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in New York, NY
The iconic Guanabara is a table designed by Jorge Zalszupin (1922-2020) in 1959 and produced by his company, L'atelier. A rosewood patchwork top rests over one concrete base finished...
Leather, Wood
Dining Table with Cane Top by Carlo Hauner, Brazilian Midcentury, 1950s
By Carlo Hauner, Martin Eisler, Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler
Located in New York, NY
Carlo Hauner and Martin Eisler's pieces of furniture are highly designed and well-executed, with ingenious constructive details – very distinctive of any production of the time in Br...
Wood, Cane
Tidelli Outdoor Dining Set – Spool Table & Rio Chairs
By Gandia Blasco
Located in Miami, FL
Tidelli Spool Dining Table & Rio Chairs — Outdoor Dining Set for 6 Table: Ø55″ × 28.25″ H Six Rio Dining Chairs: 22″ W × 23.5″ D × 31.5″ H, seat heig...
Stone, Aluminum
Eight Mid-century Liceu de Artes e Officios Brazilian Modern Dining Chairs
By Liceu de Artes e Ofícios
Located in Oakland, CA
Elegant set of eight Brazilian Modern dining chairs produced by Liceu de Artes e Officios, 1955, in Sao Paulo Brazil. Hand sculpted of be...
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Dining Table by Móveis Flama Manufacturer, Brazil, 1950s
Located in Deerfield Beach, FL
Mid-Century Modern dining table by Móveis Flama Manufacturer, Brazil, 1950s This straightforward rectangular table features the nice contrast of a white formica top nicely nestled i...
Formica, Wood
Solid Pau Marfim Wood Estrutural Table by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brazilian Design
By Joaquim Tenreiro
Located in New York, NY
Restored
Glass, Wood
$10,444 / item
260 Volta Rectangular Dining Table by Wentz
By Guilherme Wentz
Located in Geneve, CH
260 Volta Rectangular Dining Table by Wentz Dimensions: D 110 x W 260 x H 75 cm Materials: Wood, Plywood, MDF, Natural Wood Veneer, Steel. Also available in different colors: Oak, Wa...
Steel
$14,106 / item
320 Volta Rectangular Dining Table by Wentz
By Guilherme Wentz
Located in Geneve, CH
320 Volta Rectangular Dining Table by Wentz Dimensions: D 120 x W 320 x H 75 cm Materials: Wood, Plywood, MDF, Natural Wood Veneer, Steel. Also available in different colors: Oak, Wa...
Steel
Solid Caviuna Rectangular Dining Table by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brazil, 1960s
By Joaquim Tenreiro
Located in New York, NY
This stunning Caviúna piece was designed by Joaquim Tenreiro and produced in 1968 by Tenreiro Arquitetura e Interiores – located in Rio de Janeiro. Its simple design stands out with ...
Wood
$20,528 / item
400 Volta Rectangular Dining Table by Wentz
By Guilherme Wentz
Located in Geneve, CH
400 Volta Rectangular Dining Table by Wentz Dimensions: D 120 x W 400 x H 75 cm Materials: Wood, Plywood, MDF, Natural Wood Veneer, Steel. Also available in different colors: Oak, Wa...
Steel
$69,000
H 29.5 in W 159 in D 63 in
Jorge Zalszupin, Large Dining Table, Imbuia, Leather, Concrete, Brazil, 1960s
By Jorge Zalszupin, L'Atelier San Paulo
Located in High Point, NC
A large Imbuia and leather over concrete 'Guanabara' dining or conference table designed by Jorge Zalszupin and produced by L'Atelier, Brazil, c. 1960s.
Concrete, Metal
Sold|$40,000
H 31.11 in W 79.14 in D 45.28 in
Guaruja Dining Table by Jorge Zalszupin, Mid-Century Modern, 1970s
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in West Hollywood, CA
A striking example of Zalszupin’s mastery of material contrast, the Guaruja dining table juxtaposes the sensual depth of Brazilian jacarandá rosewood with the sculptural solidity of ...
Concrete
$4,681
H 30.91 in W 74.81 in D 35.44 in
Italian Midcentury Sculptural Dining Room Table with Marble Top, 1950s
Located in Morazzone, Varese
Italian Midcentury Sculptural Dining Room Table with Marble Top, 1950s Beautiful dining table, made in Italy in the 1950s. The dining table has an impressive base made of beech wood...
Marble, Brass
Sold|$9,200
H 19.69 in W 22.45 in D 15.75 in
Hauner & Eisler - Moveis Artesanal - Rare Pair of 1950s nest table in wood
By Carlo Hauner, Martin Eisler
Located in São Paulo, SP
This set of nesting tables, designed by Martin Eisler and Carlo Hauner for Móveis Artesanal in the mid-1950s, is a rare and iconic example of modern Brazilian design. Made from solid wood, the tables stand out for their light forms and sophisticated use of materials. The thin, tapered legs add elegance, while the white Formica tops create a striking contrast with the warm tone of the wood. Móveis Artesanal was a company that preceded Forma, where the design duo became more widely recognized. The functional and versatile design of the nesting tables reflects the designers’ ability to combine aesthetics with practicality, allowing the tables to be used separately or grouped together. This set is a classic example of Brazilian modernist furniture...
Formica, Wood
Glass Top Dining Table, Italy, 1950s
Located in Hamburg, DE
This dining table was produced in Italy during the 1950s and features a glass top with a central basin. The top and legs feature skai, as do the edges of the piece in the form of a t...
Glass, Plastic, Wood
$15,006
H 28.35 in W 55.52 in D 55.52 in
Quatour Dining Table by Carlo Scarpa, Mid-Century Modern, Italy
By Carlo Scarpa
Located in Berlin, DE
The Quatour Dining Table by Carlo Scarpa is a stunning example of the Italian architect’s mastery of form and material. This version features a matte black oil finish with a subtle b...
Wood
Jorge Zalszupin, Side Table, Cavuina, Formica, Brazil, 1960s
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in High Point, NC
A caviuna wood, metal and white formica side table designed by Jorge Zalszupin and produced for Hotel Nacional, 1960s. With a metal plate indicating the commission. Dimensions: 29...
Formica, Wood
Carlo Hauner, Side Tables, Iron, Rosewood, Brazil, 1960s
By Carlo Hauner
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of black-painted iron and rosewood side tables designed by Carlo Hauner, Brazil, c. 1960s. Provenance: Adesso, Los Angeles
Iron
Jorge Zalszupin Dining table
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in Washington, DC
Elegant and sophisticated vintage dining table by Brazilian modern master Jorge Zalszupin. Rich Brazilian wood with folded edges and sensual curves allows this table to exude a sensu...
Metal
$25,210
H 11.82 in W 40.95 in D 22.05 in
1960' s Jorge Zalszupin Andorinha Wood & Leather Coffee Table Brazil
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in Milano, IT
ANDORINHA Coffee Table by JORGE ZALSZUPIN (Brazil, 1960s). Shaped multi-layer wood coffee table, veneered in wood, featuring a natural leather and chrome metal magazine rack. Dimensi...
Leather, Wood
Italian Vintage Dining Table with Glass Top, Italy 1950s
By Paolo Buffa
Located in Hellouw, NL
This Italian vintage dining table brings the refined aesthetic of the 1950s into contemporary interiors. A sophisticated blend of form and material, this piece encapsulates the grace...
Glass, Mahogany
Round Dining Table in Hardwood and Metal by Jorge Zalszupin, c.1960s
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in New York, NY
This round dining table, designed by Jorge Zalszupin in the 1960s, showcases a top made from solid Brazilian rosewood (Jacaranda) with a rosewood veneer, highlighting a whimsical woo...
Metal
Sold
H 27.56 in W 45.28 in D 95.28 in
Giuseppe Scapinelli Dining Room Table and Ten Chairs Hardwood Brazilian Modern
By Giuseppe Scapinelli
Located in Curitiba, PR
Beautiful dinner table with ten chairs by Brazilian designer Giuseppe Scapinelli, Hardwood Marfim. Dimensions: 242cm x 115cm x 70cm H Chairs: 50cm x 44cm x 93cm H Seat height: 47...
Wood
Sold
H 29.85 in W 152.96 in D 47.84 in
Jorge Zalszupin 'Guanabara' Rosewood Vintage Dining Table, 1960s, Brazil
By L'Atelier San Paulo, Jorge Zalszupin
Located in New York, NY
The iconic Guanabara is a table designed by Jorge Zalszupin (1922-2020) in 1959 and produced by his company, L'atelier. A long rosewood patchwork top rests over two concrete bases fi...
Concrete
Sold
H 44 in W 21.5 in D 21 in
Sergio Rodrigues Jacaranda & Granite Dining Table with Ten Dining Chairs, 1960s
By Sergio Rodrigues, Bernardo Figueiredo
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This monumental and important 1960s Jacaranda Rosewood dining set by Sergio Rodrigues in collaboration with architect Bernardo Figuiredo includes a granite topped trestle base dining table and ten (10) caned dining chairs. For the ultimate in sophistication and refinement, while retaining a casual laid-back vibe - this important dining set is for the true connoisseur looking for a statement piece that wows and encapsulates without being over the top or expected. Not only is this visually stunning - design that encapsulates the soul of 1960s Rio de Janeiro, and with precious Jacaranda Rosewood - a now endangered species which this has so much of, it is also an important set - created with famed architect Bernardo Figuiredo for an important custom installation in a mid-century modern Rio de Janeiro home. Bernardo often collaborated with Sergio and his company OCA on projects and this one is quite special, the entire dining suite was designed and created together paired with the vision of the house in which it was created for; which we happen to also have the matching credenza available in another listing should you wish to complete the entire suite. This dining table features the original huge dark granite slab - the photos don't do it justice as there was glare coming from the photography lights. In normal room lighting it is a gorgeous dark black speckled granite top with some deep brown and silver grey flecks. The solid Jacaranda trestle base has so much exotic Brazilian Rosewood, it is an impressive site especially with its monumental size. Paired with ten (10) dining chairs in highly exotic grained Brazilian Rosewood with caned seats and seat-backs. Of the ten chairs, one is an armchair with Rosewood sculpted arms. The legs and backs are sculpted with quintessential Brazilian Modern form and true to Sergio's style. Some of the Rosewood grain is so striking and contrasting, it really stands out and increases the exotic factor on the entire set. This is an ideal set for collectors, interior designers and investors of fine art and design. It is extremely rare, and is also completely unique, for those seeking a dining set that no one else has, this is exactly that, so the time to act is now before its gone. *Note, we have another pair of matching side chairs, available to be purchased with the set. In addition, shown in the photos is the matching granite topped sideboard...
Granite
Dining Table & Chairs Vintage, 1970’s
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in London, GB
A superb vintage dining room table and extremely comfortable chairs, made from solid wood. This was most likely made in Brazil, it dates fro...
Leather, Wood
Sold
H 29.34 in W 72.84 in D 39.38 in
Brazilian Modern Branco and Preto Dining Set in Ebonized Hardwood, 1952
By Branco & Preto
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
Brazilian Mid-Century Modern dining set, designed by Jacob Ruchti of the Branco & Preto Collective, 1952. Catalogued in the book about the work of Branco & Preto on several differen...
Cane, Hardwood
Tajá Dining Set, Sergio Rodrigues, Brazil
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in Tokyo, Tokyo
A set of a dining table with slat top and 4 chairs with slat seat and back. Originally designed for outdoor use. Dimensions: Table W 89.5, D 89.5, H 71 cm Chair W 45, D 47, H 73, SH...
Wood
Sold
H 39.77 in W 21.66 in D 19.69 in
Mid-Century Modern Set of Dining Table with Chairs by Sergio Rodrigues, Brazil
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in Deerfield Beach, FL
Mid-Century Modern set of dining table with chairs by Brazilian Designer Sergio Rodrigues, 1950's This set comprises 1 (one) "Redig" dining t...
Fabric, Hardwood
Michel Arnoult Table and Chair Set
By Michel Arnoult
Located in Highland, IN
This striking table and chairs were designed by Michel Arnoult as part of his Alagoas collection for Forene S.A. Moveis do Nordstrom in Brazil. Crafted of solid exotic hardwood (poss...
Leather, Rosewood
Sold
H 36.23 in W 16.54 in D 18.51 in
1950s Six Seats Dining Set in Caviúna Wood, by Giuseppe Scapinelli
By Giuseppe Scapinelli
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
Amazing dining set produced in Caviuna wood, by Italian designer Giuseppe Scapinelli. Round table expands to six seats when open. Chairs are super light and super comfortable, even f...
Hardwood
Sold
H 30 in W 86 in D 37.5 in
1960s Brazilian Jacaranda Wood Dining Table and Chairs Attributed to Zalszupin
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Brazilian jacaranda wood and metal dining table and eight chairs from the 1960s attributed to Jorge Zalszupin, upholstered in beige suede. Chair dimensions: 18" W x 20" D x 31" H...
Metal
Campaign Set of Table and Chairs by Sergio Rodrigues for OCA, Rare
By Oca, Sergio Rodrigues
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Designed by Sergio Rodrigues, also known as the father of Brazilian modern design, this Campaign set is as convertible as it is unique; Perfect for gaming, cocktail hour, tea time, l...
Leather, Rosewood
Set of Four Rosewood Dining Chairs, Brazil, circa 1960s
Located in Atlanta, GA
Set of four rosewood dining chairs, Brazil, circa 1960s. The chairs are currently being reupholstered and can be completed in your fabric. ...
Rosewood, Suede