Showrooms

Three-Seater Sofa by Ilmari Tapiovaara for Paolo Arnaboldi, 1970s

Creator: Ilmari Tapiovaara
Offered by: MA+39

Description
A rare collaboration between Finnish designer Ilmari Tapiovaara and Italian manufacturer Paolo Arnaboldi, this 1970s three-seater sofa brings together Nordic clarity and Mediterranean craftsmanship. The piece features a solid wood frame with gently rounded edges, supporting a wide seat and backrest formed by a grid of hand-woven, cognac-toned leather straps.

The natural variations in the leather lend warmth and texture, while the clean-lined construction emphasizes Tapiovaara’s functionalist approach. The suspended seat offers a soft, flexible support system that molds with use, aging gracefully over time.

Both sculptural and grounded, this sofa reflects the rare synergy between two distinct design cultures—making it a highly collectible piece that balances rustic materiality with architectural precision.

More Information

Documentation:	Documented elsewhere (similar item)
Origin:	Italy
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Wood and woven leather
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use.
Styles / Movements:	Modern
Dealer Reference #:	6150
Incollect Reference #:	817754

Dimensions

W.	78 in;	H.	29.5 in;	D.	31 in;
W.	198.12 cm;	H.	74.93 cm;	D.	78.74 cm;

Seat H.	15 in;
Seat H.	38.1 cm;

Message from Seller:

ma+39 is Italian everyday living with a fresh and eclectic spin on the Italian mid century masters while integrating Almanza's custom pieces and "oggetti" from current and relevant talent. ma+39 offers a unique marriage of furnishings, lighting, art, and luxuries. Our showroom is a five thousand square foot gallery ranging from the mid 1600s to the mid 1900s as well as pieces from the 70s and 80s housed together in harmony. ma+39 is the collaboration of "maestri artigiani"