Palhinha Grande – Three Seats Settee, ca. 1958, Joaquim Tenreiro

The Palhinha Grande Three-Seat Settee, designed by the renowned Brazilian furniture designer Joaquim Tenreiro, is a refined extension of his iconic seating designs from the 1950s. Embodying the same principles of lightness, elegance, and functionality, this piece stands as a testament to Tenreiro’s pivotal role in shaping modern Brazilian furniture.

Often regarded as the father of modern Brazilian design, Tenreiro developed a unique aesthetic that harmonized European modernism with Brazilian materials and craftsmanship. The Palhinha Grande settee reflects this vision through its use of solid Brazilian rosewood “jacarandá,” prized for its depth of tone and structural integrity. The warm, organic quality of the wood enhances the settee’s sculptural presence while maintaining a sense of visual lightness.

The defining feature of the piece lies in its handwoven cane seat and backrest—“palhinha” in Portuguese. This traditional technique introduces both texture and transparency, allowing the larger scale of the three-seat form to remain airy and balanced. The cane work not only offers comfort and breathability but also connects the piece to Brazil’s rich artisanal heritage, a key element in Tenreiro’s design philosophy.

With its elongated proportions, the settee maintains a harmonious balance between structure and openness. The clean lines, subtly curved armrests, and gently reclined backrest create an inviting and comfortable seating experience, while showcasing Tenreiro’s meticulous attention to proportion and detail. Every joint and finish reflects the precision and craftsmanship for which his work is celebrated.

More than a functional seating piece, the Palhinha Grande Three-Seat Settee is a sophisticated representation of Brazilian modernism. Its timeless design, combined with exceptional materials and artisanal techniques, continues to captivate collectors and design enthusiasts alike, reinforcing Joaquim Tenreiro’s enduring legacy.

Materials
Rosewood
Size
27 19/20 × 70 × 19 69/100 in | 71 × 177.8 × 50 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