Pair of “Leve” armchairs in hardwood and leather by Joaquim Tenreiro, c. 1942 - Lot 402

Description

The “Leve” armchair, light in Portuguese, marks one of Tenreiro’s initial ventures into simplifying forms, breaking away from the ornate and complex silhouettes of its era. This iconic design stands as one of Brazil’s earliest modernist pieces. The feet and armrests seamlessly merge into a single solid piece, creating the illusion of the chair floating in mid-air. Tenreiro aimed to achieve this sense of weightlessness by using minimal materials.

This set features solid rosewood legs and armrests that have been meticulously refinished and are in superb condition. The armchairs have been reupholstered in a rich aubergine leather. Previously part of a private residence in Sao Paulo, Brazil, this set epitomizes both historical significance and timeless elegance in modernist design.