Armchair in Ivory Wood and Green Mohair by Giuseppe Scapinelli, Brazil, 1950s — Lot 581A

Description

A compelling example of Giuseppe Scapinelli’s sculptural approach to Brazilian modernism, this rare armchair from the 1950s reflects the designer’s distinctive ability to merge structural clarity with expressive form. Executed in richly figured ivory-toned hardwood and newly upholstered in deep forest green mohair, the piece embodies the architectural sensibility and material refinement that define Scapinelli’s most celebrated seating designs.

The composition is anchored by an elongated, gently reclined backrest framed by five slender vertical spindles, a recurring Scapinelli gesture that introduces rhythm, transparency, and a heightened sense of verticality. The chair’s silhouette is further articulated through elegantly curved arms that extend outward in a fluid, wing-like gesture, creating both visual movement and a subtle sense of enclosure. Tapered legs and a continuous lower stretcher reinforce the design’s structural discipline while preserving an uncommon visual lightness.

Unlike many contemporaneous Brazilian seating forms that prioritize mass and volume, this model demonstrates Scapinelli’s uniquely lyrical approach to proportion. Every line feels intentionally resolved: the ascending rear posts, sculpted arm terminals, and softly rounded seat all contribute to a composition that reads as both functional furniture and autonomous sculpture.

The hardwood frame has been carefully refinished to highlight the warmth and tonal depth of the timber while maintaining the integrity of the original form. Newly upholstered in luxurious deep green mohair, the chair gains a sophisticated tactile dimension that accentuates the warmth of the wood and reinforces the richness of the overall palette. The upholstery’s dense pile and subtle luminosity introduce depth without overpowering the chair’s architectural framework.

Comfort is fully integrated into the design. The generous seat, supportive recline, and enveloping arm structure create a seating experience that feels simultaneously refined and inviting — a hallmark of Scapinelli’s most successful works.

Presented in excellent vintage condition, this armchair stands as a refined and increasingly collectible example of mid-century Brazilian design. Works by Giuseppe Scapinelli remain among the most architecturally expressive forms produced in Brazil during the postwar period, celebrated for their sculptural intelligence, disciplined craftsmanship, and enduring material presence.