Percival Lafer sofa

This is a rare two-seat sofa, model MP-091, designed by Percival Lafer and produced by Lafer MP in Brazil during the 1960s. The piece is part of a modular seating system developed by Lafer that emphasizes suspended comfort, robust construction, and luxurious materials. This particular example combines a solid rosewood frame with deeply cushioned black leather upholstery, resulting in a composition that is simultaneously rugged and inviting.

The sofa’s structure consists of a rectilinear frame in stained rosewood, with straight horizontal side and base members forming a low, open box. Suspended within this structure is a leather sling seat, formed by a generous black leather cushion that wraps over the frame and is tensioned underneath using wide leather support straps, fastened with turned wooden toggles. These straps provide both support and visual rhythm, offering a glimpse of the construction from the rear view. The armrests and backrest are unified by a continuous padded leather surface, softly contoured to provide ergonomic comfort while retaining its original shape and volume.

The leather is worn-in with a pronounced patina, showing areas of creasing and fading that are consistent with age and use, contributing to the visual and tactile authenticity of the piece. The rosewood frame has aged with a warm luster, displaying some minor surface wear and tonal variations characteristic of mid-century Brazilian hardwoods.

Percival Lafer, born in 1936, is one of Brazil’s most respected furniture designers, known for integrating modernist principles with the sensuous qualities of Brazilian materials. The MP-series, including this MP-091 model, is emblematic of his innovative spirit, combining industrial production methods with high-comfort upholstery systems. His designs are celebrated for their distinctive blend of functionality, craftsmanship, and expressive form.

This sofa is presented in good vintage condition, structurally sound with aged but well-preserved upholstery and original leather webbing. The patina and wear are consistent with careful use and reflective of the piece’s vintage integrity.

The dimensions are 150 cm in width (59.1 inches), 80 cm in depth (31.5 inches), and 68 cm in height (26.8 inches), with a seat height of 38 cm (15 inches). It is offered with the possibility of acquiring the corresponding MP-091 three-seater and lounge chair, enabling a complete seating arrangement that captures the relaxed luxury of 1960s Brazilian design.