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Percival Lafer Benches

Brazilian, b. 1936

When it comes to mid-century furniture, the innovative work of the Brazilian Modernists has often been overlooked, including the designs of prolific maker Percival Lafer. Lafer studied architecture at São Paulo’s Universidade Mackenzie. After he graduated, his father passed away suddenly, leaving a furniture business that Lafer took over with his brothers.

Taking up the mantle, Lafer made the jump from architecture to furniture design in 1961, putting a focus on thoughtfully designed pieces available at affordable prices. That year, Lafer introduced his supremely popular MP-1 chair, a plush piece of furniture made with iron and wood that he has riffed on throughout his entire career.

The silhouettes of Lafer lounge chairs, armchairs and other seating were distinct from streamlined American and European mid-century modernism, taking on casual, puffed forms thanks to his use of polyurethane layers as padding. He combined such contemporary industrial materials with local natural ones, namely Brazilian hardwoods, which delighted customers around the world as Lafer became one of the country’s leading exporters of furniture.

Lafer has continued to design furniture throughout his career, branching into sofas, tables and lighting. He was at the forefront of mechanical furniture movements, debuting the MP-7 sofa, which could turn into a twin bed, in 1965, the first such piece on the market. One of his most intriguing projects was the MP Lafer, a two-seat fiberglass roadster designed to emulate British sports cars. Some 4,300 units were produced over its 16-year manufacturing run in the ’70s and ’80s, with several ending up in the collections of major car museums.

Still, Lafer’s biggest claim to fame is his seating, which he continues to design, drawing inspiration from modern shapes and local materials. In 2017, a retrospective of his work was organized as part of the São Paulo Design Weekend.

Find vintage Percival Lafer furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Percival Lafer
Rare Brazilian Modern Design - Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Sofa Bench, 1973
Rare Brazilian Modern Design - Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Sofa Bench, 1973

Rare Brazilian Modern Design - Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Sofa Bench, 1973

By Percival Lafer, Lafer

Located in São Paulo, SP

Rare MP-123 modular sofa bench designed by Percival Lafer in Brazil in 1973. Originally conceived as a fully demountable modular seating system for corporate and reception spaces, th...

Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Stainless Steel

1960s MP-123 Modular Bench by Percival Lafer for Lafer, Completely Original
1960s MP-123 Modular Bench by Percival Lafer for Lafer, Completely Original

1960s MP-123 Modular Bench by Percival Lafer for Lafer, Completely Original

By Percival Lafer

Located in Victoria, BC

Designed by Percival Lafer and produced in Brazil during the 1960s, the MP-123 Modular Bench reflects the designer's innovative approach to modular furniture and exposed construction...

Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Hardwood

Related Items
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2

$14,000 / set

H 28.35 in W 37.8 in D 36.23 in

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” armchairs for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” armchairs by Percival Lafer embrace fluidity with a structure that appears weightless despite their solid wood frames. The absence of visible crossbars beneath the seat enhances this effect, allowing the thick, tufted cushions to seemingly float. The upholstery drapes over the structure like silk fabric on a sculpted form, a harmonious integration of material and frame. The butterfly-shaped joints refine the frame’s construction, tapering toward the center for a softened profile. The lateral tufting on the seat is not merely decorative—it creates a structured geometry that follows the contours of the body. The armrests, backrest, and seat merge into a single, uninterrupted form, maximizing ergonomic support. Leather straps secure the cushions to the frame, a signature Lafer detail that blends artisanal technique with industrial efficiency. The MP-41 prioritizes organic curves over strict geometric lines. The deep cognac leather, aged to a rich patina, enhances the warmth of the wood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon...

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1970s Brazilian Post-Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

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Percival Lafer “MP-41” Living Room Set for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 3
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Living Room Set for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 3

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Living Room Set for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 3

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” living room set for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972, set of 3 The “MP-41” living room set by Percival Lafer, composed of a sofa and two armchairs, embraces fluidity with a structure that appears weightless despite its solid wood frame. The absence of visible crossbars beneath the seat enhances this effect, allowing the thick, tufted cushions to seemingly float. The upholstery drapes over the structure like silk fabric on a sculpted form, a harmonious integration of material and frame. The butterfly-shaped joints refine the frame’s construction, tapering toward the center for a softened profile. The lateral tufting on the seat is not merely decorative—it creates a structured geometry that follows the contours of the body. The armrests, backrest, and seat merge into a single, uninterrupted form, maximizing ergonomic support. Leather straps secure the cushions to the frame, a signature Lafer detail that blends artisanal technique with industrial efficiency. The MP-41 prioritizes organic curves over strict geometric lines. The deep cognac leather, aged to a rich patina, enhances the warmth of the wood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon’s “Tijuca...

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Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer
Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer

Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer

$22,000 / set

H 26.38 in W 32.49 in D 29.53 in

Pair of "MP-97" armchairs by Percival Lafer

By Percival Lafer

Located in São Paulo, BR

In the world of design, Percival Lafer was a visionary dedicated to enhancing both comfort and aesthetics. His innovation led to the creation of the dual MP-97 lounge chairs, which e...

Category

Late 20th Century Brazilian Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Wood

Brazilian Modern Sofa, Percival Lafer 1960's
Brazilian Modern Sofa, Percival Lafer 1960's

Brazilian Modern Sofa, Percival Lafer 1960's

$6,730Sale Price|20% Off

H 27.17 in W 86.23 in D 31.5 in

Brazilian Modern Sofa, Percival Lafer 1960's

By Percival Lafer

Located in Uccle, BE

Sofa Mod. MP-13, 1960's Made by Lafer S. e Co, Sao Paulo Rosewood, chrome and faux leather H 70 x L219 x W80 x Seat Height 41Percival Lafer Mid-Century Brazilian sofa made of Walnut ...

Category

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Percival Lafer, Pair of 'MP-01' Lounge Chairs, Brazil, 1960s, Velvet
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Located in Amsterdam, NL

Percival Lafer Pair of MP-01 Armchairs Wood, Metal & Velvet Brazil, 1961 The MP-01 armchair, designed by Percival Lafer in 1961, was his very first model and the starting point ...

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Mp 81 Leather Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s
Mp 81 Leather Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s

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Located in Rosendahl, DE

Percival Lafer MP-81 Lounge Chair and Ottoman Brazil, circa 1970s An iconic MP-81 lounge chair with matching ottoman designed by Percival Lafer and produced by Móveis Lafer, Brazil,...

Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

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Percival Lafer MP-41 Lounge Chairs for Craft Associates
Percival Lafer MP-41 Lounge Chairs for Craft Associates

Percival Lafer MP-41 Lounge Chairs for Craft Associates

By Craft Associates, Percival Lafer

Located in Oak Harbor, OH

Designer: Percival Lafer Manufacturer: Craft Associates® Furniture Period/Model: Mid-Century Modern Specs: Walnut, leather These Percival Lafer MP-41 loun...

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Percival Lafer, MP-01 Sofa, Velvet, Brazil, 1960s
Percival Lafer, MP-01 Sofa, Velvet, Brazil, 1960s

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Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972

$7,000

H 28.35 in W 37.8 in D 36.23 in

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” armchair by Percival Lafer embraces fluidity with a structure that appears weightless despite its solid wood frame. The absence of visible crossbars beneath the seat enhances this effect, allowing the thick, tufted cushion to seemingly float. The upholstery drapes over the structure like silk fabric on a sculpted form, a harmonious integration of material and frame. The butterfly-shaped joints refine the frame’s construction, tapering toward the center for a softened profile. The lateral tufting on the seat is not merely decorative—it creates a structured geometry that follows the contours of the body. The armrests, backrest, and seat merge into a single, uninterrupted form, maximizing ergonomic support. Leather straps secure the cushion to the frame, a signature Lafer detail that blends artisanal technique with industrial efficiency. The MP-41 prioritizes organic curves over strict geometric lines. The deep cognac leather, aged to a rich patina, enhances the warmth of the wood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon...

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1970s Brazilian Post-Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

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Percival Lafer, 'MP-113' Lounge Chair, Brazil, 1970s
Percival Lafer, 'MP-113' Lounge Chair, Brazil, 1970s

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H 34.26 in W 29.53 in D 35.04 in

Percival Lafer, 'MP-113' Lounge Chair, Brazil, 1970s

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Located in Amsterdam, NL

Percival Lafer 'MP-113' Lounge Chair Newly Upholstered Brazil, 1970s Offered by RAFA gallery

Category

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Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, Black Leather, 1972
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, Black Leather, 1972

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, Black Leather, 1972

By Percival Lafer

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, wood and black leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” armchair by Percival Lafer embraces fluidity with a structure that appears weightless ...

Category

1970s Brazilian Post-Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

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Previously Available Items
Rare Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Bench in Brazilian Rosewood, 1960s
Rare Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Bench in Brazilian Rosewood, 1960s

Rare Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Bench in Brazilian Rosewood, 1960s

By Lafer, Percival Lafer

Located in ABCOUDE, UT

Incredibly rare Percival Lafer MP-123 bench by Lafer MP in stunning black leather and Brazilian Rosewood, 1960s. This model is one of Percival Lafer's most desirable pieces. The mo...

Category

1960s Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Chrome

Percival Lafer Bench Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil
Percival Lafer Bench Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil

Percival Lafer Bench Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil

Sold

H 26.78 in W 59.06 in D 26.38 in

Percival Lafer Bench Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil

By Percival Lafer

Located in Limhamn, Skåne län

Very rare bench with table and magazine rack designed by Percival Lafer. Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil.

Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Chrome

Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Bench in Brazilian Rosewood
Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Bench in Brazilian Rosewood

Percival Lafer MP-123 Modular Bench in Brazilian Rosewood

By Percival Lafer

Located in Toronto, Ontario

One of Percival Lafer's most desirable pieces. A MP-123 Modular seating unit. This example in brazilian rosewood with original leather and polished stainless steel . Seating ...

Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Percival Lafer Leather and Rosewood Bench
Percival Lafer Leather and Rosewood Bench

Percival Lafer Leather and Rosewood Bench

Sold

H 16 in W 49 in D 22.5 in

Percival Lafer Leather and Rosewood Bench

By Percival Lafer

Located in Phoenix, AZ

Percival Lafer leather and rosewood bench circa early 1970s. This example has been newly finished and upholstered in a soft and supple Edelman leather.

Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Benches

Materials

Leather, Rosewood

Percival Lafer benches for sale on 1stDibs.

Percival Lafer benches are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Percival Lafer benches, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original benches by Percival Lafer were created in the mid-century modern style in south america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider benches by Sergio Rodrigues, Geraldo de Barros, and Jorge Zalszupin. Prices for Percival Lafer benches can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $4,000 and can go as high as $36,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $20,000.
Questions About Percival Lafer Benches
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Percival Lafer is a leading contemporary Brazilian furniture designer most famous for his Mid-Century Modern sofas and chairs constructed with hardwood and luxurious leather. Lafer is a pioneer of the Brazilian Modernist movement. On 1stDibs, find authentic Percival Lafer furniture from top sellers.