Brazilian Modern Sculptural Sofa with Caviúna Bookshelf & Mohair, Martin Eisler for Forma, Brazil, 1950s — Lot 972

Description

An exceptional and highly sculptural Brazilian Modern sofa with an integrated Caviúna bookshelf, produced in Brazil during the 1950s and attributed to the early creative language of Martin Eisler and Forma. Conceived as both seating and architecture, the piece combines a generously curved upholstered sofa with an independent, substantial wood storage element, creating an unusually sophisticated composition when viewed from any angle.

The design is particularly distinguished by its abundant use of Caviúna, one of the great Brazilian cabinetmaking woods of the period. The timber has aged beautifully, developing extraordinary depth and movement, with vibrant figuring, pronounced darkveins, and fiery orange and reddish highlights running through its warm brown ground. The sofa itself is supported by elegantly tapered cylindrical legs executed in Brazilian rosewood, providing a restrained counterpoint to the architectural mass of the Caviúna cabinetry.

The composition consists of two independent elements: the upholstered sofa and the bookshelf/storage unit. They are simply positioned together rather than mechanically attached; no screws or permanent hardware are required. 

The upholstered section follows a sweeping, rounded profile with a notably generous depth. Its continuous curvature gives the sofa a strong sculptural presence without sacrificing comfort. The seat is constructed with individually defined, softly crowned sections, while the segmented upholstered back follows the arc of the frame and terminates in a substantial rolled end. The piece has been newly upholstered in luxurious mohair, selected for its dense hand, subtle luster, and ability to emphasize the sofa's voluptuous geometry.

Behind it, the Caviúna element functions almost as a piece of freestanding architecture. One section incorporates open shelving with a floating shelf, while the opposite section contains a two-door cabinet, providing both display and concealed storage. Its broad upper surface further allows the piece to function as a console for sculpture, books, or objects. Together, the upholstered and wooden components transform the conventional sofa into a remarkably complete living-room composition.

Because the sofa was originally positioned against a wall, one portion of the reverse was historically left unfinished. During restoration, Found Collectibles added a removable Caviúna back panel to this area so the piece can now be appreciated freestanding and viewed from all sides. The intervention is entirely reversible and does not alter or compromise the integrity of the original construction; the panel can be removed upon request.

The relationship between rich Brazilian hardwood, tailored mohair upholstery, curved geometry, and multifunctional cabinetry makes this an especially compelling expression of postwar Brazilian design. It reflects the period's fascination with luxurious indigenous materials and furniture conceived not simply as an object, but as an architectural component of the interior.

A rare private-commission design with commanding scale, remarkable Caviúna figuring, and the sophisticated material language employed by  Martin Eisler and early Forma production in 1950s Brazil.

Provenance upon request.