Brazilian Modern "Ouro Preto" Loveseat in Imbuia, Michel Arnoult, 1960s

This rare version of the iconic “Ouro Preto” loveseat, designed in the 1960s by Arnoult, showcases the elegance and innovation that define Brazilian modern design. Crafted in rich imbuia wood, the frame is refined and visually light, with slender arms and legs that give the piece a floating, architectural presence.

A distinctive feature of the Ouro Preto line is the nylon webbing system on the backrest, which supports the cushions without the need for additional structure—an inventive detail that speaks to Arnoult’s forward-thinking approach to comfort and construction.

What makes this loveseat especially unique is the upholstery: the cushions retain their original 1960s fabric, a rare find that adds historical authenticity and collectible value. The soft neutral tone contrasts beautifully with the deep brown of the imbuia wood, making it versatile enough to complement a wide range of interiors.

Designer Bio: Michel Arnoult was a French-born designer who later became an adoptive Brazilian, and he is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the Ready-To-Assemble furniture (RTA) and flat-packaging. In the early 1950s, he arrived in Brazil and quickly made friends with some of the leading figures in modern architecture, such as Oscar Niemeyer and Cândido Portinari. At the time, there was a shortage of furniture suitable for the smaller spaces in social housing, which prompted Michel Arnoult to design simple but functional RTA furniture with his company Mobilia Contemporanea

His innovative and daring approach at the time proved incredibly successful, earning him several prestigious awards, including the Roberto Simonsen Prize for industrial design in 1964, and the Museo da Casa Brasileira Prize in 2003. His legacy continues to inspire designers to this day.