"Ouro Preto" Loveseat in Imbuia, Michel Arnoult, 1960s - Lot 870

Designed by Michel Arnoult (1922–2021) in the 1960s, this Ouro Preto loveseat exemplifies the designer’s commitment to rational construction and accessible modernism within the Brazilian context. Arnoult’s work sought to distill form and function into structurally honest compositions, and this model reflects that philosophy with clarity.
The frame is crafted in solid imbuia, its warm tone and subtle grain providing material depth without excess. Slender, rectilinear legs and arms articulate a disciplined architectural outline, giving the piece a sense of visual lightness. The proportions are deliberate: the seat sits low and open, while the arms extend in a continuous horizontal line that anchors the composition.
A defining feature of the Ouro Preto line is its exposed nylon webbing system supporting the back cushions. This solution eliminates unnecessary bulk, allowing the structure itself to articulate both support and flexibility. The webbing remains visible as part of the design logic—an expression of structural clarity rather than concealment.
Notably, this example retains its original 1960s upholstery. The fabric presents with age-appropriate wear consistent with use, preserving the historical integrity of the piece. The neutral tone establishes a restrained dialogue with the imbuia frame, emphasizing material contrast over ornament.
An authentic and increasingly scarce iteration of one of Arnoult’s most recognized seating designs, this loveseat reflects the designer’s enduring contribution to Brazilian modernism—where efficiency, craftsmanship, and material integrity converge.