"Cuiaba" Dining Chair with Armrests in Hardwood & Fabric - Lot 672

Designed by Sergio Rodrigues (1927–2014) in the 1970s, the Cuiabá dining chair with armrests reflects the designer’s continued exploration of structure, comfort, and expressive form. The chair belongs to a mature phase of Rodrigues’ work, when his designs favored clarity of construction and an assertive architectural presence.
Crafted in solid Brazilian hardwood, the chair is defined by its distinctive rectangular, box-like base, which grounds the composition with visual weight and structural stability. This geometric foundation contrasts with the angled backrest and open arm structure, creating a dynamic relationship between mass and openness. The pierced backrest element introduces both ergonomic support and sculptural identity, diverging from conventional dining chair typologies.
Material integrity remains central to the design. The hardwood frame emphasizes durability and tactile warmth, while the upholstered seat integrates comfort directly into the structure rather than treating it as an applied element. The chair’s low seating profile reinforces Rodrigues’ characteristic emphasis on relaxed posture and informal use.
The chair has been meticulously restored and remains in excellent vintage condition, with careful attention paid to preserving its original proportions and material intent. Complementary armless Cuiabá chairs (Lot 478-479)are available, as well as the corresponding dining table (Lot 478) by Sergio Rodrigues, allowing the ensemble to be presented as a cohesive dining configuration.
A confident and thoughtfully resolved design, the Cuiabá chair exemplifies Rodrigues’ ability to balance architectural rigor with everyday comfort, securing its place within the canon of Brazilian modern furniture.