Percival Lafer coffee table

This rare coffee or side table was designed by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer and produced by Lafer MP in Brazil during the 1970s. It exemplifies Brazilian mid-century modernism through its sophisticated interplay of luxurious materials, structural innovation, and tropical modernist aesthetics.

The table’s square frame is upholstered in mustard yellow leather, creating a soft, tactile border around the inset tabletop. The top is crafted from natural black slate with a rugged, textured surface that contrasts strikingly with the smooth leather surround, embodying Lafer’s signature contrast between organic and refined materials.

Supporting the table are four solid rosewood legs, cylindrical and subtly tapering toward their bases. These legs are mounted externally to the frame with large wooden pegs, showcasing exposed joinery that celebrates both craftsmanship and structural expression. The rosewood’s warm reddish-brown hues and dark veining add depth and richness to the overall design.

Measuring 76 cm wide, 65 cm deep, and 38 cm high (29.9 x 25.6 x 15 inches), the table functions perfectly as either a coffee or side table, offering a sculptural and tactile presence within any seating arrangement. The piece shows light, age-consistent wear, including minor patina on the leather edges and natural surface variation on the slate.

Percival Lafer (b. 1936) is a seminal figure in Brazilian modern design, known for integrating exotic woods, fine leathers, and innovative structural concepts into refined yet accessible furniture. Lafer MP, his manufacturing company, was instrumental in shaping Brazil’s mid-century modern movement, balancing artisanal quality with commercial viability.

This table stands as a refined and bold statement of mid-century Brazilian style, merging tactile materials with formal clarity and meticulous craftsmanship, making it a sought-after collectible within 20th-century modern design.