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.
MP-61 Sofa in Rosewood by Brazilian Designer Percival Lafer, 1973
By Percival Lafer
Located in New York, NY
In his designs, Percival Lafer sought ergonomy and comfort. The MP-61 sofa and armchair, from 1973, was the first two pieces designed by Percival Lafer that used a visible fiberglass...
Leather, Fiberglass, Rosewood
Percival Lafer “MP-211” Living Room Set for Lafer S.A., 1961, Set of 2
By Lafer, Percival Lafer
Located in Lonigo, Veneto
Percival Lafer “MP-211” Living Room Set for Lafer S.A., leather and wood, 1961, Brazil, set of 2 Few Brazilian designs of the 1960s carry the material conviction of Percival Lafer's...
Leather, Wood
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...
Leather, Wood
Brazilian Modern Leather Sofas and Lounge Chair by Percival Lafer Brazil, 1970s
By Percival Lafer, Lafer
Located in Rosendahl, DE
Sofas by Percival Lafer Brazil, 1970s Original seating group by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s – including a three-seater, two-seater, and lounge chair. The sculptural shell design w...
Leather, Cherry
$12,960Sale Price|20% Off
Mp-97 Sofa Midcentury Brazilian Design by Percival Lafer, Cedar Wood, 1970s
By Percival Lafer
Located in New York, NY
Original condition.
Metal
$12,400Sale Price / set|22% Off
Percival Lafer MP-75 Lounge Chairs w Rosewood Buckles, 1970 Brazil, Set of Four
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
These very rare and documented set of Percival Lafer 'MP-75' lounge chairs, designed and produced in the 1970s. This rare set of four (4) lounge chairs which feature Brazilian Rosewo...
Upholstery, Wood, Rosewood
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Sofa for Lafer MP, 1972
By Percival Lafer
Located in Lonigo, Veneto
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Sofa for Lafer MP, wood and cognac leather, Brazil, 1972 The “MP-41” sofa 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 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...
Leather, Wood
Percival Lafer “MP-211” Living Room Set for Lafer S.A., 1961, Set of 3
By Percival Lafer, Lafer
Located in Lonigo, Veneto
Percival Lafer “MP-211” Living Room Set for Lafer S.A., leather and wood, 1961, Brazil, set of 3 Few Brazilian designs of the 1960s carry the material conviction of Percival Lafer's...
Leather, Wood
$34,812 / set
H 27.56 in W 94.49 in D 39.38 in
Gianfranco Frattini Brown Alpaca Velvet Sesann Living Room Set for Cassina, 1972
By Gianfranco Frattini, Cassina
Located in Vicenza, IT
Sesann living room set, designed by Gianfranco Frattini in 1972 and produced by the Italian manufacturer Cassina. The set is composed of a three-seater sofa and three armchairs. It ...
Chrome
$5,569Sale Price|20% Off
H 37.01 in W 44.49 in D 23.63 in
Art Nouveau Mahogany Living Room Set, 1910, Set of 3
Located in Opole, PL
Art Nouveau Mahogany Living Room Set, 1910, Set of 3 This parlor set, crafted in Italy, beautifully embodies the graceful aesthetic of Art Nouveau. At the...
Upholstery, Mahogany
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...
Wood
$11,487 / set
H 26.38 in W 36.23 in D 29.93 in
Set of Percival Lafer Cognac Leather MP-13 Armchairs and a Footstool
By Percival Lafer
Located in Madrid, ES
Set of armchairs, model MP-13, with a footstool from circa 1960-1970 by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer. Frame made of solid Jatoba wood, covers of cognac brown leather. Stool's di...
Leather, Wood
Lounge Chair for Brazil Industries, Percival Lafer
By Percival Lafer
Located in LAGUNA BEACH, CA
Percival Lafer Lounge Chair for Brazil Industries circa 1970s Edelman Leather, Brazillian Rosewood 28 3/4 x 40 x 28 3/4 inches.
Leather, Rosewood
Lounge Chairs 'MP-81' by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s
Located in Antwerp, BE
MP-81 lounge chairs by Percival Lafer, designed in the 1970s, exemplary pieces of Brazilian mid-century modern design. These chairs feature beautifully restored red leather paired wi...
Leather, Walnut
$8,000
H 35.5 in W 31.5 in D 32.5 in
Percival Lafer MP-173 Earth Lounge Chair with Ottoman Rosewood & Leather
By Percival Lafer
Located in Portland, OR
At GoodWilson we ensure the authenticity of our entire vintage collection. All items are cleaned, polished, and restored with great care. Our prices reflect these high standards, cur...
Leather, Rosewood
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 ...
Chrome
$25,296 / set
H 27.56 in W 94.49 in D 39.38 in
Gianfranco Frattini Ocher Velvet Sesann Living Room Set for Cassina, 1972
By Cassina, Gianfranco Frattini
Located in Vicenza, IT
Sesann dining room set, designed by Gianfranco Frattini in 1970 and produced by the Italian manufacturer Cassina. It is composed of a three-seater sofa and an armchair. It features o...
Chrome
Percival Lafer, Lounge Chair, Wood, Fabric, Brazil, 1970s
By Percival Lafer
Located in High Point, NC
A beige fabric and wood lounge chair designed and produced by Percival Lafer, Brazil, c. 1970s. Fabric distressed. Wear consistent with age and use. Overall Dimensions (inches): 25...
Fabric, Wood
$12,800Sale Price|20% Off
H 27 in W 36 in D 31 in
Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs by Percival Lafer, 1970
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Pair of 1970 Percival Lafer lounge chairs Produced by Lafer S.A. in a beautiful honey suede upholstery with rosewood bases. - These are in good vintage condition with a beautiful ...
Leather, Suede, Rosewood
$8,800
H 30 in W 82 in D 36 in
Rare Mid Century Modern Cube Leather sofa by Percival Lafer Brazil 1970
By Percival Lafer
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Rare Amazing Mid Century Modern Cube Leather sofa Designed by Percival Lafer Made in Brazil. Cube designed Shaped 3 seat fully upholstered Burnt saffron yellow color Soft leather sof...
Leather, Wood
Sold
H 24.25 in W 80.5 in D 31.5 in
Mid Century Percival Lafer Mp-129 Rosewood Couch and Lounge Chair Set Rare
By Percival Lafer
Located in Esperance, NY
This is a very rare opportunity to buy the couch and chair for a fraction of the price because the set is missing the original cushions. The frames are complete with original strappi...
Rosewood
Sold
H 25.6 in W 87.41 in D 37.8 in
Percival Lafer MP-41 Armchair Sofa Ottoman Coffee Table Set, Brazil 1970s
By Percival Lafer
Located in Reutlingen, DE
A unique and beautiful Percival Lafer MP-41 set consisting of a 3-seater sofa, 1 high-back armchair, 1 low-back armchair, ottomans, and a small coffee table in an exclusive custom de...
Leather, Glass, Wood
Sold
H 25.6 in W 85.44 in D 35.44 in
MP-61 Sofa in Rosewood by Brazilian Designer Percival Lafer, 1973
By Percival Lafer
Located in New York, NY
In his designs, Percival Lafer sought ergonomy and comfort. The MP-61 sofa and armchair, from 1973, was the first two pieces designed by Percival Lafer that used a visible fiberglass...
Leather, Fiberglass, Rosewood
Sold
H 23.63 in W 74.81 in D 35.44 in
Stunning Percival Lafer sofa set in original black leather - Lafer S.A. - Brazil
By Percival Lafer
Located in Buggenhout, Oost-Vlaanderen
Extremely rare, complete & matching set from its first owner. 6 pieces. Designed by Percival Lafer & produced by LAFER S.A. - São Paulo Brazil. The complete set was labeled. Only c...
Leather
Sold
H 28.5 in W 76.5 in D 33.5 in
Percival Lafer 'S-1' Rosewood and Leather Three Seat Sofa, Brazil, 1976, Signed
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This gorgeous restored 'S-1' sofa by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer for Lafer MP. This sofa was designed in 1976 and was Lafer's concept of merging Brazilian design with Scandinav...
Leather, Rosewood
Sold
H 27.25 in W 76.5 in D 33.75 in
Percival Lafer 'S-1' Rosewood and Leather Living Room Set, Brazil, 1976, Signed
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This gorgeous restored 'S-1' sofa by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer for Lafer MP. This sofa was designed in 1976 and was Lafer's concept of merging Brazilian design with Scandina...
Leather, Rosewood
Sold
H 29.14 in W 84.65 in D 33.47 in
Percival Lafer MP-97 Sofa Lounge Chair Set in Dark Brown Leather, 1960s
By Percival Lafer
Located in ABCOUDE, UT
Nice dark brown leather two seater sofa, lounge chair with ottoman and coffee table by Percival Lafer, model MP-97. The set is made of a Br...
Alabaster
Sold
H 26.5 in W 89.25 in D 28.5 in
Percival Lafer 'MP-13' Rosewood and Leather Four-Seat Sofa, Brazil, c. 1967
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This gorgeous MP-13 four-seat sofa by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer for Lafer MP was designed in 1967, this example an early production made for Brazil and recently imported to the US. Featuring a gorgeous Brazilian Rosewood frame with vivid grain that supports the original black leather cushions with Rosewood tufted buttons and chromed hardware. The MP-13 was adapted from the MP-1 chair / sofa, Lafer's first design, but giving it softer rounded shapes and a body supported on a base of solid Brazilian Rosewood. Floating solid Rosewood arms with chromed elements providing structural lightness and easy disassembly and reassembly. Additional subtle details such as the rosewood tufted buttons and matching black leather arm cushions with leather ties upgrade the casual laid-back vibe with a bit of refined classiness. This example is ideal for collectors as it is an original production piece imported from Brazil. Lafer's best work was made for Brazil - his later production pieces produced for export was made with cheaper materials and are less desirable to collectors and interior designers working on high profile projects. The quality of materials and craftsmanship on this MP-13 sofa...
Chrome
Sold
H 27.25 in W 31.5 in D 33.75 in
Percival Lafer 'S-1' Rosewood and Leather Living Room Set, Brazil, 1976, Signed
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This gorgeous restored 'S-1' living room set comprised of a pair of cognac leather lounge chairs and a three-seat sofa by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer for Lafer MP. This set was designed in 1976 and was Lafer's concept of merging Brazilian design with Scandinavian sensibility - the sling seat cushions are made of molded foam carried by Rosewood frames. Signed with Lafer labels throughout underneath seat cushions. This incredible signed collectors set is also ideal for interior designers working on high end projects as it was fully restored - Rosewood frames were refinished and joinery tightened, the original cognac leather cushions cleaned, conditioned and spot-dyed with color matched leather dye...
Rosewood, Leather
Sold
H 24.5 in W 40 in D 37 in
Fiberglass Sofa and Chairs Living Room Set by Percival Lafer, Brazil, c. 1970
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This rare Percival Lafer living room set was recently sourced from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and is still in its original groovy fabric. Featuring lightweight cast fiberglass bases with...
Fabric, Fiberglass
Percival Lafer Seating Group Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil
By Percival Lafer
Located in Limhamn, Skåne län
Rare 3-seat sofa, 2-seat sofa and easy chair designed by Percival Lafer. Produced by Lafer MP in Brazil. Dimensions 3-seat sofa (W x D x H): 200 x 100 x 85 cm, SH: 38 cm Dimensions...
Leather, Rosewood
Sold
H 27.96 in W 41.34 in D 33.47 in
Two Midcentury Brazilian Lounge Chairs in Leather and Rosewood by Percival Lafer
By Percival Lafer
Located in Karlstad, SE
A pair of lounge chairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil. These chairs consist of a rosewood frame upon which the cushions rest. The cushions are upholstered in brown leather with buttons ...
Leather, Wood, Rosewood