Pair of Giuseppe Scapinelli High Back Chairs in Caviuna Wood, Brazil 1950s

This pair of two high back armchairs has the typical Scapinelli style with its curvy lines and soft sensual shapes. The elegant lines of this design are beautifully emphasised in the back with five slender spindles and the refined curvy armrests. The chairs are elevated by diagonal tapered legs supporting the sand coloured upholstered cushions. The chairs are both comfortable with their thick seats as well as aesthetically pleasing.

About the designer:

⁣Giuseppe Scapinelli was born in Reggio Emilia in Italy on the 2nd of July 1911 and he was the 6th of 13 sons. He graduated in architecture in 1941. However just as his career was starting, it was abruptly interrupted by WW2 and he was forced to live in seclusion in an antique furniture shop, where he further studied the styles and production of old furniture. After the devastations of the war, the promise of a better life in South America lured and in 1948 Scapinelli decided to leave for Brazil and more specifically the metropole São Paulo.

At first Scapinelli worked for the architect and well-known 'Paulista' Francesco Matarazzo, who opened many doors for him and other Italian refugees. Later, in 1950 Scapinelli opened his own office. Because of his modern and complete style in interior decoration, he soon settled as an architect / decorator backed by a great team of skilled Italian woodworkers.

On top of his technique, Scapinelli was constantly studying all forms of visual arts and for example frequently integrated ceramics in his works. He knew how to be modern without abandoning the classical principles he had learned in Italy.
As he was described in Brazil’s Casa e Jardim magazine at the time "(He is) a classic who does not forget to be modern - or if you prefer - a modernist who does not forget to be classic". After a full life Giuseppe Scapinelli died in São Paulo in 1982, aged 71.

Today Scapinelli's style is still easily recognisable because of the curvy lines and soft sensual shapes, very much away from the mainstream works of his fellow designers at the time with works beautifully crafted in traditional Brazilian woods like caviuna and jacaranda.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Re-upholstered. Fabric has some small unevenness on the sides of the items.

Dimensions:

25.99 in. W x 29.14 in. D x 33.47 in. H; seat height 17.33 in.

66 cm W x 74 cm D x 85 cm H; seat height 44 cm

Literature:

Giuseppe Scapinelli 1950: - O Designer da Emoção - Sergio Campos, Brazil 2015, p. 42

Design Brasileiro de Móveis - Cadeiras, Marcelo Vasconcellos e Zanini de Zanine, Olhares, P