{"product_id":"michel-arnoult-ouro-preto-modular-loveseat-pair-of-open-arm-lounge-chairs-in-imbuia-brazil-1960s-convertible-two-in-one-design-lot-870a","title":"Michel Arnoult “Ouro Preto” Modular Loveseat \/ Pair of Open-Arm Lounge Chairs in Imbuia, Brazil, 1960s — Convertible Two-in-One Design  Lot 870A","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"341\"\u003eDescription:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"156\" data-end=\"842\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eDesigned by \u003cstrong data-start=\"168\" data-end=\"198\"\u003eMichel Arnoult (1922–2021)\u003c\/strong\u003e during the 1960s, this exceptionally versatile \u003cstrong data-start=\"246\" data-end=\"260\"\u003eOuro Preto\u003c\/strong\u003e seating system embodies the designer's enduring philosophy of rational construction, functional adaptability, and democratic Brazilian modernism. Conceived with the clarity and efficiency that defined Arnoult's work, the design functions equally as a refined \u003cstrong data-start=\"520\" data-end=\"532\"\u003eloveseat\u003c\/strong\u003e or as \u003cstrong data-start=\"539\" data-end=\"572\"\u003etwo independent lounge chairs\u003c\/strong\u003e, each retaining a single sculptural armrest. This ingenious modular configuration allows the pieces to be used together as a cohesive two-seat sofa or separated into individual armchairs, offering remarkable flexibility without compromising the integrity of the design.\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"844\" data-end=\"1561\"\u003eA leading figure in postwar Brazilian design, Arnoult consistently challenged conventional furniture production by prioritizing honest construction, ease of assembly, and everyday usability. Among his many innovations, he became one of the earliest designers in Brazil to introduce \u003cstrong data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1167\"\u003eexposed nylon cord suspension systems\u003c\/strong\u003e into furniture during the 1960s. Rather than concealing structural components, Arnoult celebrated them, transforming the woven nylon support into both an engineering solution and a defining visual element. The exposed webbing of the \u003cem data-start=\"1401\" data-end=\"1413\"\u003eOuro Preto\u003c\/em\u003e series remains one of its most recognizable and pioneering characteristics, expressing lightness, resilience, and remarkable structural efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1563\" data-end=\"2207\"\u003eThe architecture of the piece is executed in \u003cstrong data-start=\"1608\" data-end=\"1624\"\u003esolid imbuia\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Brazil's most prized native hardwoods. More than six decades later, the timber has matured beautifully, developing a deep honeyed chestnut tone enriched by subtle amber undertones and dramatic flowing grain. The wood possesses the quiet richness that only naturally aged imbuia can acquire over time, while its satin finish enhances the organic figure without excessive gloss. Broad rectilinear legs and continuous horizontal arms establish a disciplined architectural framework that appears both substantial and visually light, exemplifying Arnoult's mastery of proportion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2209\" data-end=\"2802\"\u003eSuspended within this refined structure, the cushions appear almost weightless. The upholstery has been executed in \u003cstrong data-start=\"2325\" data-end=\"2347\"\u003epremium ultrasuede\u003c\/strong\u003e, whose exceptionally soft hand, matte velvety surface, and refined tactile character complement the warmth of the imbuia beautifully. The material offers the luxurious appearance of suede while providing superior durability and color consistency, allowing the clean geometry of the design to remain the visual focus. Generously padded seat and back cushions create exceptional comfort while preserving the crisp architectural lines that define the model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2804\" data-end=\"3167\"\u003eThe visible nylon suspension supporting the back cushions remains an integral part of the composition, eliminating unnecessary mass while providing flexible ergonomic support. Rather than functioning merely as hidden construction, the woven cords become an essential expression of Arnoult's belief that structure should be both efficient and aesthetically honest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3169\" data-end=\"3749\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eAuthentic examples of the \u003cstrong data-start=\"3195\" data-end=\"3209\"\u003eOuro Preto\u003c\/strong\u003e seating system have become increasingly difficult to source, particularly in this highly desirable modular configuration that seamlessly transforms between a loveseat and two individual lounge chairs. Combining innovative engineering, exceptional Brazilian craftsmanship, and timeless modernist restraint, this rare design stands as an enduring testament to Michel Arnoult's profound influence on twentieth-century Brazilian furniture, where structural intelligence, material integrity, and remarkable versatility exist in perfect balance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Found Collectibles","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52709826199839,"sku":"870A","price":14000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0712\/9645\/0847\/files\/2_4d04de84-5e0d-4f70-93d5-c2fa559abfeb.jpg?v=1785190748","url":"https:\/\/foundcollectibles.com\/products\/michel-arnoult-ouro-preto-modular-loveseat-pair-of-open-arm-lounge-chairs-in-imbuia-brazil-1960s-convertible-two-in-one-design-lot-870a","provider":"Found Collectibles","version":"1.0","type":"link"}