Description

Designed by Giuseppe Scapinelli in the 1950s, this set of six dining chairs reflects the refined structural language that defined the designer’s contribution to Brazilian modern furniture. An Italian-born architect and designer who established his career in Brazil, Scapinelli developed a body of work distinguished by its careful balance between architectural rigor and the expressive qualities of Brazilian hardwoods. These chairs exemplify that synthesis, where slender proportions and disciplined geometry are paired with the visual richness of jacaranda.

The design is characterized by a tall, linear backrest composed of evenly spaced horizontal slats, creating a measured rhythm that emphasizes verticality and lightness. The frame is notably slender, with narrow uprights and gently tapered legs that contribute to the chairs’ refined profile. This economy of structure is typical of Scapinelli’s seating designs, where the visual weight of the chair is reduced without compromising stability. The open back construction introduces negative space within the composition, allowing the chairs to maintain an airy presence around a dining table.

Crafted in Brazilian rosewood (jacaranda), the frames reveal the dense grain and deep tonal variation characteristic of the species. The wood has been carefully refinished to restore the clarity of the surface and highlight the natural figure of the material. The seats have been newly upholstered in a white textile, providing a restrained contrast to the dark rosewood frame. This pairing of dark hardwood with light upholstery reinforces the chairs’ balanced visual composition while maintaining the understated palette common in mid-century Brazilian interiors.

Function is integrated directly into the structural design. The slightly angled backrest and upholstered seat offer comfortable support for extended dining, while the slender frame allows the chairs to be easily arranged and repositioned around a table. The restrained construction ensures that the chairs remain visually unobtrusive while maintaining a distinct architectural presence.

This set originates from a private residence and has undergone careful restoration, including refinishing of the rosewood frames and reupholstery of the seats. The structure of each chair remains stable and well preserved, with surfaces consistent with respectful conservation.