Bola de Latão Chair, ca. 1951, Lina Bo Bardi

The Bola de Latão chair is one of the most iconic and sculptural furniture pieces designed by Lina Bo Bardi. Created in 1951 for her famous Casa de Vidro (Glass House), the chair embodies her vision of combining Brazilian modernism with handcrafted, expressive forms.

Its name translates to “Brass Ball,” referring to the distinctive brass spheres placed on the front legs of the chair — a dramatic and almost theatrical detail that became the piece’s signature. The structure combines tubular iron with suspended leather, creating a chair that feels both raw and elegant.

Originally, only six examples were produced for Casa de Vidro, making the design exceptionally rare and highly collectible. Today, licensed re-editions are produced under authorization from the Instituto Bardi.

What makes Lina’s furniture so special is how human and informal it feels compared to strict European modernism of the time. Her pieces were designed to encourage comfort, conversation, and relaxed living rather than rigid formality.

Materials
PAINTED TUBULAR METAL, HAND-STITCHED LEATHER, BRASS, STRING
Size
30 × 39 × 33 1/2 in | 76.2 × 99.1 × 85.1 cm
Rarity

Unknown edition
Medium

Design/Decorative Art
Condition
Beautiful piece restored in great condition.
Signature
Not signed
Certificate of authenticity
Included (issued by gallery)
Frame
Not included