Brazilian Modern Armchair in Hardwood & Leatherette, Giuseppe Scapinelli, 1950s

Available today, this Mid-Century Modern armchair in hardwood and brown faux leather by Giuseppe Scapinelli, 1950s Brazil is nothing less than the FIND of the year!

The armchair is in its original form and is in an excellent state. This beauty features a hardwood structure with geometric shapes. The upholstery is in leatherette capitone style with the original nails in place.

There are three reasons why this piece is SOOO special: First, this armchair has never been altered (reupholstered or any other alteration done afterwards) and looks the same as when it was bought in the fifties back in Brazil. Second, this iconic design is one of Scapinelli most renowned, appearing in countless publications, such as the cover of Casa e Jardim, 1956, no. 30 (Brazil House & Garden) and Giuseppe Scapinelli’s book (images attached). Lastly, and equally as important the armchair is very comfortable.

The armchair is showcased in our gallery next to a Geraldo de Barros chest of drawers and a magazine rack by Carlo Hauner. In another photo is next to a chest of dravers from Moveis Cimo looking equally spectacular.

This Brazilian Modern beauty can stand by itself and look spectacular as well as effortlessly flex into any Mid-Century Modern, Modern or Contemporary environment. But if you are looking for a true collectible piece that reflects Brazilian Modernism in the fifties, look no further!

Giuseppe Scapinelli was born in 1891 in Modena, Italy, but like many of his Italian fellows, he crossed the ocean and immigrated to Brazil where he started a new life. An accomplished painter, ceramist, and sculptor, he began his career as a furniture designer in the early 1950s.
Scapinelli was both a furniture maker and retailer in 1950s-1960s in São Paulo. His futuristic style is easily recognizable because of the curvy lines and soft shapes, inspired by the Italian design of the 1940s, a departure from the mainstream designs of his fellow retailers. His pieces are beautifully crafted in Brazilian traditional wood. He designed and produced many unique pieces for distinctive São Paulo homes. Scapinelli died in 1982.

Size: H35.4, W26, D26.8 (in) H90, W66, D68 (cm).