Skip to main content

Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

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.

to
1
1
2
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
106
94
92
76
38
Creator: Percival Lafer
Percival Lafer MP-116 Modular Lounge Chair, Brazil 1970s Rare Set of 4 available
By De Sede, Sergio Rodrigues, Percival Lafer
Located in Chattanooga, TN
An exceptional and increasingly scarce example of the Percival Lafer MP-116 modular lounge system, produced in Brazil in the 1970s and offered here as an individual seating unit. A total of four matching modules are available, an extremely rare occurrence for this model. Sets of this size, in this level of preservation, almost never reach the market. The MP-116 represents one of Lafer’s most sculptural and architecturally ambitious seating designs, defined by its distinctive pillow-block construction, deeply gathered leather upholstery, and the refined engineering that characterizes his most collectible work. Each module is crafted from four generously padded, individually upholstered leather blocks that create the sensuous, soft geometry that has made the MP-116 one of the most coveted designs of Lafer’s career. Upholstered in a rich, dark-chocolate leather, the cushions retain their fullness and tactile depth, presenting in very good original condition with the kind of surface character and luster that collectors seek. The frames are executed in solid Brazilian Jatobá hardwood, a dense, high-value tropical species noted for its strength and warm, glowing tonality. The timber displays exceptional grain clarity and remains in outstanding condition, underscoring the longevity and craftsmanship of this early production. The MP-116 was conceived as a genuinely forward-thinking modular system—far more sophisticated than most mid-century modular seating. A single unit makes a striking lounge chair with its sculptural massing and enveloping comfort, while multiple units can be combined into expansive sofas, balanced loveseats, long chaises, or asymmetrical compositions suited to contemporary architectural interiors. The ability to acquire four identical modules offers a level of design freedom, visual coherence, and spatial flexibility that is virtually impossible to source today. For designers and collectors working at a high level, this is an opportunity to build a complete, historically correct MP-116 suite. This listing is for one MP-116 lounge seat, though up to four matching pieces are available. The set comes directly from the original owner and is accompanied by photocopies of the 1973 Brazil Contempo...
Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Fruitwood

Scarce MP 123 sofa by Percival Lafer
By Percival Lafer
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Très tare canapé modulable par Pericval Lafer.
Category

1970s Brazilian Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Stainless Steel

Related Items
Rare MP-61 Sofa, Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s
By Percival Lafer
Located in Amsterdam, NL
The MP-61 series from 1972 were the first designs in which Percival Lafer used a fully visible fiberglass shell. The molded shell allowed greater freedom in shaping the form while si...
Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Fiberglass, Hardwood

Rare MP-61 Sofa, Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s
Rare MP-61 Sofa, Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970s
$32,939
H 25.2 in W 86.62 in D 35.44 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 rosewood 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 rosewood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon...
Category

1970s Brazilian Post-Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchairs for Lafer MP, 1972, Set of 2
$16,800 / set
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 rosewood 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 rosewood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon...
Category

1970s Brazilian Post-Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972
Percival Lafer “MP-41” Armchair for Lafer MP, 1972
$9,250
H 28.35 in W 37.8 in D 36.23 in
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 rosewood 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 rosewood. The absence of ornamentation shifts focus to the raw materials, celebrating their natural textures and variations. Unlike Jean Gillon’s “Tijuca...
Category

1970s Brazilian Post-Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

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 Sectional Sofas

Materials

Wood

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
Mp-97 Sofa Midcentury Brazilian Design by Percival Lafer, Cedar Wood, 1970s
By Percival Lafer
Located in New York, NY
Original condition.
Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Metal

Mp-97 Sofa Midcentury Brazilian Design by Percival Lafer, Cedar Wood, 1970s
Mp-97 Sofa Midcentury Brazilian Design by Percival Lafer, Cedar Wood, 1970s
$12,960 Sale Price
20% Off
H 26.38 in W 83.86 in D 33.86 in
Pair of Brazilian Vintage Lounge Chairs by Percival Lafer MP, Brazil, 1970s
By Percival Lafer
Located in Boom, Vlaams Gewest
Beautiful pair of vintage lounge chairs designed and produced by Lafer MP in Brazil during the 1970s. These chairs feature the brand’s signature combination of comfort, craftsmanship...
Category

19th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Antique Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970
By Percival Lafer
Located in Vigevano, PV
The MP-91 armchair, designed by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer, features a solid Jatoba wood frame and cognac-colored leather upholstery.
Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970
Pair of MP-91 armchairs by Percival Lafer, Brazil, 1970
$6,228 / set
H 36.23 in W 31.5 in D 32.68 in
Sofa MP-163, by Percival Lafer, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Design
By Percival Lafer
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
Crafted by the renowned master Percival Lafer in 1970, this exceptional piece of furniture boasts a striking and comfortable design. Its clean lines and unique details, such as elega...
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Steel

Percival Lafer MP‑41 Lounge Chair in wood and leather, Brazil, 1970s
By Sergio Rodrigues, Percival Lafer
Located in Argelato, BO
1.708 / 5.000 The MP-41 armchair, designed by Brazilian designer Percival Lafer in the 1960s, is an icon of Brazilian modernism, known for its bold, innovative, and comfortable desi...
Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer Suede Earth Lounge Chair and Ottoman 1970s Brazil
By Percival Lafer
Located in Debrecen, HU
This stunning set is an iconic piece of Brazilian modernism, combining functionality and aesthetics. The chair and ottoman offer exceptional comfort and elegance, while the chrome-pl...
Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Chrome

Percival Lafer Suede Earth Lounge Chair and Ottoman 1970s Brazil
Percival Lafer Suede Earth Lounge Chair and Ottoman 1970s Brazil
$3,359 Sale Price
49% Off
H 33.47 in W 29.14 in D 35.83 in
Percival Lafer MP-97 Leather Lounge Chair
By Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Leather lounge chair by Percival Lafer c.1960's, Brazil. The chair features the original cognac leather with a beautiful Brazilian hardwood frame. The back of the lounge chair showca...
Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Upholstery, Hardwood

Percival Lafer MP-97 Leather Lounge Chair
Percival Lafer MP-97 Leather Lounge Chair
$7,000
H 28 in W 33.75 in D 33 in
Previously Available Items
Percival Lafer Patchwork Leather Modular Living Room Set, c. 1960 Brazil, Signed
By Lafer, Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
An impressive 1960s modular set of twenty-one (21) elements of cognac brown patchwork leather sectional living room set by Brazilian Modern...
Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer Patchwork Leather Modular Living Room Set, circa 1960 Signed
By Lafer, Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
An impressive 1960s modular set of eight (8) sections of cognac brown patchwork leather sectional living room set by Brazilian Modern desig...
Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer Patchwork Leather Modular Living Room Set, circa 1960, Signed
By Lafer, Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
An impressive 1960s modular set of twelve (12) elements of dark brown patchwork leather sectional living room set by Brazilian Modern desig...
Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer Brazilian Black Leather Modular Sofa/Two Pair Chairs
By Percival Lafer
Located in Sherborne, GB
A modular black leather sofa with innovative articulated arms ( can be up or down into the unit) the back lifts off to reveal some storage. Amazing as a pairs of chairs, or two smaller sofas...
Category

Late 20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather

Percival Lafer Patchwork Leather Modular Living Room Set, circa 1960 Signed
By Lafer, Percival Lafer
Located in Los Angeles, CA
An impressive 1960s modular set of eight (8) sections of cognac brown patchwork leather sectional living room set by Brazilian Modern desig...
Category

1960s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Wood

Percival Lafer for Brazil Industries Distressed Leather Lounge Chair Sectional
By Lafer, Percival Lafer
Located in Hudson, NY
Distressed leather three-piece sectional, or individual lounge chairs. Each piece is identical having adjustable arms. Pieces can be configured a number of ways as shown. Large stora...
Category

1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather

Percival Lafer sectional sofas for sale on 1stDibs.

Percival Lafer sectional sofas are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of leather and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Percival Lafer sectional sofas, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Prices for Percival Lafer sectional sofas can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $10,500 and can go as high as $33,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $21,750.
Questions About Percival Lafer Sectional Sofas
  • 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.

Still Thinking About These?

All Recently Viewed