Pair of “Copa” Armchairs in Jatobá and Olive-Green Mohair by Jean Gillon for Italma, Brazil, 1960s — Lot 1126
Couldn't load pickup availability
Questions about this piece?
Description
A rare pair of iconic “Copa” lounge chairs designed by Jean Gillon for Italma during the 1960s, combining sculptural Brazilian hardwood, exposed suspension, and deeply comfortable upholstery.
Romanian-born Gillon settled in Brazil in 1956 and founded Italma Wood Art shortly afterward. His furniture became known for combining the expressive character of native Brazilian woods with inventive, visibly articulated structures—a sensibility fully realized in the Copa armchair.
Each chair is constructed from solid jatobá, a dense Brazilian hardwood distinguished by its strength, warm reddish-brown color, and richly varied grain. The substantial frame is formed by four straight legs with softly rounded edges, joined by exposed horizontal rails that establish a strong architectural rhythm. Projecting arm supports terminate in smoothly curved ends, softening the geometry and giving the chairs their distinctive sculptural profile.
New saddle-leather straps extend vertically across the open back, creating a flexible suspension system for the cushions while remaining fully visible as an integral part of the design. Their warm cognac tone provides a refined transition between the reddish jatobá and the olive-green upholstery. Seen from behind, the disciplined arrangement of leather straps gives the chairs an especially handsome and graphic presence.
The generous seat, tufted back cushion, and cylindrical arm bolsters have been newly upholstered in luxurious olive-green mohair. Its deep, earthy color complements the warmth of the wood, while the mohair’s soft pile lends subtle tonal movement and a rich tactile finish. The broad proportions, gently reclined posture, and layered cushioning create an enveloping seat that is exceptionally comfortable without compromising the clarity of the frame.
Both armchairs retain their original manufacturer’s seals, confirming their production by Italma. Cool and relaxed yet unmistakably elegant, the Copa is a quintessential Jean Gillon design—bold in scale, sophisticated in construction, and expressive from every angle.