“Canoa” Sofa in Brazilian Rosewood & Mohair, Liceu de Artes e Ofícios, Brazil

A study in restraint and cultural translation, the “Canoa” sofa by Liceu de Artes e Ofícios distills Brazilian modernism into a form that is both architectural and symbolic. Executed in solid jacarandá (Brazilian rosewood), the design is defined by its sculptural arm supports—an elegant, tapered gesture referencing the paddles of Indigenous Brazilian canoes, from which the piece derives its name.

The construction reflects the discipline of one of Brazil’s most important design institutions: a continuous wood apron grounds the composition, while slender, tapered legs and precise joinery lend visual lightness. The rosewood is exceptional—dense, richly figured, and alive with deep tonal variation, revealing the material intelligence that distinguishes the finest mid-century Brazilian work.

Newly upholstered in a sumptuous burnt caramel mohair, the seating introduces a warm, tactile counterpoint to the rigor of the frame. The velvet pile subtly shifts under light, moving between amber, tobacco, and deep rust tones—enhancing both depth and presence.

Rooted in the post-war dialogue between craftsmanship and modernity, the “Canoa” stands as a culturally grounded and highly refined example of Brazilian seating design—rare, sculptural, and enduringly relevant.

Designer Bio:
Liceu de Artes e Oficios is a technical school in São Paulo, Brazil, that was founded in 1873. It was one of the first institutions in the country to offer vocational training in the arts and crafts, including woodworking, metalworking, and painting.

Liceu de Artes e Oficios was renowned for its focus on high-quality craftsmanship and modern drawing techniques, which were key factors in the success of its furniture design department. Led by Lucio Costa, the architecture and design department of the Sao Paulo school of Arts & Crafts created stunning furniture pieces during the latter half of the 20th century, showcasing the immense talent of its students.

Today, Liceu de Artes e Oficios continues to offer high-quality vocational training to students from all over Brazil.