Sergio Rodrigues, 1959. Eight Tiao chairs in Rosewood (2 armchairs + 6 chairs)

A refined and quietly sculptural set of eight Tião dining chairs by Sergio Rodrigues, executed in richly grained Brazilian rosewood and newly upholstered in a soft, textural bouclé. Comprising six armless side chairs and two head armchairs, the composition reflects Rodrigues’ masterful balance of structural clarity, comfort, and material expression—hallmarks of Brazilian modernism in the 1960s.

The design is defined by its architectural restraint: slender vertical supports, disciplined horizontal rails, and a subtly suspended backrest that reads as both supportive and visually light. The armchairs notably maintain an open back construction—absent of any rear wood slab—preserving transparency and reinforcing the linear purity that distinguishes the Tião model within Rodrigues’ body of work.

The rosewood (caviúna) frames have been fully restored to a satin matte finish, revealing deep, dramatic grain with natural tonal movement. The surface reads dense and luxurious, with a controlled luster that enhances, rather than masks, the integrity of the wood. Upholstery has been redone in a neutral bouclé, selected for its tactile softness and quiet contrast—offering a refined, contemporary counterpoint to the richness of the rosewood.

Rooted in Rodrigues’ philosophy of creating furniture that is both relaxed and architecturally rigorous, the Tião chairs embody a uniquely Brazilian interpretation of modernism—where comfort is never secondary to form. The proportions are low and grounded, with a generous seat and supportive back, making the set equally suited for extended dining or executive environments.

A rare complete set in this configuration, with two head armchairs anchoring the composition and enhancing its versatility. Pieces of this quality—fully restored, materially cohesive, and design-authentic—are increasingly difficult to source.

Designer Bio:
Sergio Rodrigues was a Brazilian furniture designer and architect. Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1927, he studied architecture and worked in various design fields before founding his own furniture company in the 1950s.

Rodrigues was known for using traditional Brazilian materials like wood and leather in his furniture designs, which gave his pieces a distinctly Brazilian aesthetic. He also drew inspiration from Brazilian culture and history, incorporating elements like the curving lines of Brazilian architecture and the colors and patterns of indigenous art. Additionally, he often looked to the natural beauty of Brazil for inspiration, using organic shapes and textures in his designs. Overall, Rodrigues's work reflected his deep appreciation for his country's rich cultural heritage and unique artistic traditions.

Some of his most famous pieces include the Mole and the Oscar armchairs. Rodrigues's work helped to establish Brazilian modernism as a prominent design movement, and he continued to create innovative furniture designs throughout his career. He passed away in 2014 at the age of 86.

Chair no arms: H 31" x W 17" x D 19"
Armchairs: H 31" x W 22" x D 24"