Costelinha Lounge Chair by Móveis Pailar, Brazil, 1960s

Produced by Móveis Pailar during the 1960s, the Costelinha lounge chair is a compelling example of Brazilian modernist furniture design. Its name, derived from the Portuguese word for "small rib," refers to the rhythmic arrangement of curved wooden slats that define the chair’s distinctive silhouette. Balancing sculptural presence with visual lightness, the design demonstrates the inventive approach to form and craftsmanship that characterised Brazilian furniture production during the post-war decades.

Founded in São Paulo, Móveis Pailar became known for creating sophisticated furniture that combined modernist principles with the warmth and expressiveness of Brazilian craftsmanship. The Costelinha chair exemplifies this approach through its architectural structure, refined proportions and emphasis on comfort. This example has been newly upholstered in a Pierre Frey fabric, introducing a contemporary layer of texture while remaining sympathetic to the chair’s original character. Today, it remains one of the most recognisable seating designs associated with Brazilian modernism, appreciated for its sculptural presence, exceptional craftsmanship and enduring relevance within twentieth-century design.