“Bola” Chairs from Casa de Vidro, Brazil, 1951 - Pair

Designed by Lina Bo Bardi in 1951 for her own residence, the iconic Casa de Vidro (Glass House) in São Paulo, the “Bola” chair stands as one of the rarest and most historically significant pieces of Brazilian modernist furniture. Conceived specifically for the interiors of the house, the chair reflects Bo Bardi’s unique synthesis of architecture, material honesty, and sculptural restraint.

The design is defined by a blackened steel tubular frame supporting a suspended saddle-like leather seat and back. The form appears almost structural rather than decorative, emphasizing clarity of line and the relationship between tension and support. Two brass spheres mounted at the ends of the armrests give the model its name—“Bola,” meaning “ball”—introducing a subtle sculptural accent within the otherwise rigorous composition.

These chairs were not produced commercially. They were created exclusively for Casa de Vidro, one of the most important architectural works of the twentieth century and Bo Bardi’s first major project after moving to Brazil. The house became a laboratory for her ideas about modern living, and the furniture designed for it forms an integral part of that vision.

Only six examples of the Bola chair are known to have been produced for the residence. To the best of current knowledge, the present chairs are among the very few that have left the original house collection, making them extraordinarily rare objects within the history of modern design.

The chairs combine architectural clarity with a remarkable material presence. The blackened metal structure remains visually light while the leather seat forms a natural, ergonomic curve. Over time the leather develops a deep patina that reinforces the sense of authenticity and age.

Today, Lina Bo Bardi is recognized as one of the most influential architects and designers of the twentieth century, and furniture associated with Casa de Vidro occupies a particularly important position within her body of work.