Pair of “Leve” Armchairs in Rosewood and Velvet by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brazil, 1940s – Lot 402

Description

Among the earliest articulations of Brazilian modernism, the “Leve” armchair by Joaquim Tenreiro (1906–1992) represents a decisive departure from the ornamental traditions that preceded it. Introduced in the 1940s, the design marks one of Tenreiro’s foundational explorations into structural clarity, proportion, and visual lightness—principles that would come to define the trajectory of modern furniture in Brazil.

“Leve,” meaning “light” in Portuguese, is not merely a title but a formal thesis. The chair is constructed with remarkable economy: the feet and armrests are conceived as continuous sculptural elements, carved from solid rosewood and resolved into a singular flowing gesture. This seamless integration produces an architectural suspension, creating the illusion that the upholstered volume hovers within the frame. The slender, tapered legs further heighten this sensation of elevation and balance.

This pair has been professionally restored and discreetly reinforced to ensure long-term structural integrity while preserving Tenreiro’s original proportions and visual delicacy. Joints have been stabilized and the internal support system strengthened where necessary, executed with careful respect for the original construction methodology. The rosewood frames have been refinished to reveal depth, tonal richness, and the clarity of their grain.

Newly upholstered in luxurious cotton-blend mohair in a muted dusty rose tone, the seating surfaces offer both visual softness and tactile comfort. The gently reclined backrest and generous seat pitch create a relaxed, supportive posture—subtle ergonomic considerations that underscore Tenreiro’s sensitivity to human scale. While visually restrained, the chairs are notably comfortable, balancing sculptural refinement with everyday usability.

Previously part of a private residence in São Paulo, this pair embodies the intellectual and material discipline that positioned Tenreiro as a pioneer of Brazilian modern design. Both historically significant and formally resolved, the “Leve” armchair remains one of the most elegant and structurally poetic seating forms of the mid-20th century.