Sergio Rodrigues is widely recognized for his role in the creation of a full-fledged brazilian movement. In a country where popular furniture is in a genre qualified by Joaquim Tenreiro as a “style of all the Louises” (referring to the dynasty of French kings), Rodrigues and his peers brought about a modernist revolution, partly inspired by Bahaus and rationalism. According to him, “Lucio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer were amongst the first to apply the principles of modernism to architecture in the 1930s. It is later that progress in interior design and furniture happened.”
Sergio Rodrigues (1927-2014)
Modèle Senado
Sold 10 894 €
This influence of the great Brazilian architects on his work drives him to create pieces in their honor, that can be found in the July 26th sale: the Oscar chair, whose back is inspired by Oscar Niemeyer’s glasses, and the Lucio model, in reference to Lucio Costa. Rodrigues created a true identity for Brazilian design: if the ideas of industrialization and sleekness borrowed from the modernists remain, the Brazilian designer frees himself from the constraints of Bauhaus, and favors the use of indigenous woods rather than metal, the simplicity of organic shapes, and comfort. Inspired by local and indigenous culture, he created a trailblazing style, unique, elegant, and refined. Many consider him, to this day, the father of modern Brazilian design.
Sergio Rodrigues (1927-2014)
Modèle Oscar
Sold 10 361 €
His Poltrone Mole (soft armchair) model is a major work, now in the MoMA’s permanent collection. Designer Fernando Mendes de Almeida, Rodrigues’ student, friend, and cousin said of him: “his dimensions as an artist and public figure become eternal and blend in with our life history and with the history of the nation itself. Few Brazilian artists defended our culture, our way of life, and the way we are for so long and with such determination. Few designers had such a long productive life." He has collaborated with Carlo and Ernesto Hauner, discussed art with his friend Lina Bo Bardi, and had a stormy relationship with Martin Eisler, who refused to produce one of his designs when Rodrigues worked for Forma.
Sergio Rodrigues (1927-2014)
Modèle Lucio
Sold 46 628 €
Today, his work is instantly recognizable, and has become iconic in Brazil’s design production.
