Pair of “Cadeira com Assento Curvo” Chairs in Rosewood and Cane by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brazil, 1960s - Lot 849

This exceptional pair of chairs, designed by Joaquim Tenreiro in the 1960s, represents one of the most refined expressions of Brazilian modernism and stands among the designer’s most important and recognizable seating models. Known as the “Cadeira com Assento Curvo” (Chair with Curved Seat), this design is documented in Tenreiro’s own publications and exemplifies his lifelong pursuit of lightness, structure, and material intelligence.

Crafted in Brazilian rosewood (jacarandá) with handwoven cane, the chairs reveal Tenreiro’s mastery of woodworking and proportion. The gently curved seat—subtly sculpted rather than upholstered—introduces ergonomic comfort while maintaining visual restraint. The cane backrests provide permeability and lightness, allowing air and light to pass through the structure, a recurring principle in Brazilian modern furniture inspired by the country’s climate and architectural ideals.

Architecturally, the chairs echo the language of Brazilian modernism of the period: slender supports, rhythmic repetition of verticals, and a clear articulation between load-bearing elements and planes. Much like modernist buildings of the era, the design achieves stability through balance rather than mass, resulting in pieces that feel poised, airy, and timeless.

While this model was later reproduced by firms such as Celina Decorações and Forma Móveis, none achieved the same level of refinement and precision found in Tenreiro’s original work. His exceptional understanding of wood is evident in the seamless joinery, the elegant tapering of the legs, and the fluid transitions between structural elements.

Sold as a pair, these chairs are not only functional seating and sculptural highlights, but also museum-level examples of Brazilian modern design. Acquiring this set represents an opportunity to own a foundational work by one of Brazil’s most important furniture designers—an enduring investment that continues to gain historical and market significance.