Curved, Iconic, Brazilian: we are thrilled to unveil a selection of designs by the Godfather of Brazilian Modern. Few men, in the history of architecture, have managed to infuse sensuality into concrete and conjure earthly beauty; Oscar Niemeyer was one of those remarkable few. His work, defined by free-flowing shapes and gracious curves has influenced entire generations of architects and interior designers, inspired by his countless buildings gracing Brazil’s main cities, including the country’s federal capital.
Arguably Niemeyer’s most iconic accomplishment, Brasilia is a feat of engineering and sensuality, of concrete and light. This city, built from scratch on a dry, empty plateau, is where Niemeyer showed the world his fresh take on rationalism and the infinite aesthetic possibilities of concrete.
Alongside his public buildings, Oscar Niemeyer started designing furniture out of sheer frustration, driven by the need to fix “the problem with furniture arrangements”. The great master thought that beautiful modernist & contemporary architecture was often diminished by the presence of inadequate pieces of furniture… With the help of his daughter, Anna Maria, he created many iconic designs that stand the test of time.
Free from the strict rules of functionalism, he injected sensuality and “Brasilidade” into his work conveying beauty through asymmetry and curves. The Rio Rocking Chair, the Marquesa Bench and the Alta Armchair, to name but a few, will hold forever a special place in the history of design, while fitting beautifully into our catalogue of contemporary furniture.
These covetable pieces are being re-issued by ETEL, the only Brazilian company that has access to the country’s best modernist furniture, thus contributing to preserve and cherish this incredible legacy. By applying a strict methodology, faithfulness to the originals, and intensive collaboration with the Oscar Niemeyer Foundation and heirs, ETEL contributes to perpetuating the history and legacy of the great master.
The month-long solo exhibition at our Headquarters will showcase pieces from the ON collection and signature designs including the Memorial Lounge Chair and Ottoman – a special edition of the iconic ‘Alta’ chair released by ETEL to recover one of the architect’s designs that was lost in a terrible fire. In addition, we will present a lovely selection of Niemeyer’s delicate metal engravings created in collaboration with model maker Gilberto Antunes. The artworks will be available in a limited edition.
The exhibition runs until June 1st and is open for visitation by-appointment-only.
