Armchair in Leather and Ivory Chenille by Fátima Arquitetura - Lot 503C

An architecturally assertive Brazilian modern armchair by Fátima Arquitetura e Interiores, crafted during the 1960s in solid jacarandá, or Brazilian rosewood, with warm cognac leather side panels and newly upholstered ivory chenille cushions. Its clearly expressed structure and generous upholstery bring together two defining qualities of Brazilian modern furniture: a respect for native hardwoods and an enduring attention to comfort.

The frame establishes a strong, open silhouette. Long rosewood armrests with softly rounded ends extend above leather-clad sides, while substantial upright legs and connecting rails give the chair a grounded presence. At the rear, a sequence of vertical rosewood slats follows the inclination of the backrest, revealing the upholstered cushions through the open framework. This carefully resolved back makes the armchair equally compelling when viewed from behind, allowing it to sit freely within a room.

The beautifully aged rosewood lends depth and individuality to the design. Rich reddish-brown tones, darker figuring, and flowing grain remain visible beneath the professionally restored satin finish. The craftsmanship is evident in the shaped armrests, the measured spacing of the back slats, and the precise relationship between the wooden frame and inset leather panels. These details make the chair a particularly expressive example of Fátima’s workmanship, with refinement carried through every elevation.

The updated upholstery introduces a softer tactile character. Supple Italian leather provides a smooth, warm counterpoint to the exceptionally soft ivory chenille, whose subtly raised pattern adds depth without overwhelming the frame. Generously padded cushions have rounded edges and a gently crowned seat that invites sitting. The full back cushion and relaxed seating proportions create an enveloping, comfortable experience within the chair’s architectural outline.

Associated with Rio de Janeiro’s modern furniture and interiors culture, Fátima Arquitetura e Interiores belongs to a generation that considered furnishings an integral part of the architectural setting. Here, that approach is expressed through balanced proportions, exposed construction, and the interplay of wood, leather, and fabric. Restored and newly upholstered, the armchair retains the material richness of its 1960s origins while offering renewed comfort for contemporary interiors.