Geraldo de Barros UL19 armchairs Unilabor Brazil 1955

Geraldo de Barros

Brazil 1923 – 1998
Painter, photographer and designer

This rare set of two UL19 armchairs, designed by Geraldo de Barros and manufactured by Unilabor in Brazil in 1955, exemplifies the designer’s modular approach to furniture design. Geraldo de Barros’ concept for the Unilabor series was based on a system of predefined elements, allowing for versatility in composition. In the case of these armchairs, the tubular iron structure, known for its minimalistic and functional design, features a gentle rear extension to enhance seating comfort.

Resting on this tubular frame is a beautifully crafted rosewood-laminated wood shell with solid wood ends, which supports loose seat and back cushions. The armrests, made of solid rosewood and identified in the catalog as UL18, add an elegant, natural touch to the design. The contrast between the warm, richly grained rosewood and the black tubular frame, accented with brass-finished feet, creates a striking visual balance.

These chairs, with or without their cream-white, linen-like upholstered cushions, embody a refined, minimalistic aesthetic. In very good condition, the set retains its authenticity, preserving the original design elements as much as possible. A rare and elegant piece of Brazilian modernism, this set is a true collector’s item. Please note that the listed price is for the pair of chairs.

Literature; Brazilian Modern Design Alberto Vicente Marcelo Vasconcellos 2017, page 275.

As with all our upholstered pieces, these can be custom reupholstered to suit your preferences. Consult with our experienced upholstery department for a personalized quote on customizing the item of your choice. We can work with fabric you provide or order specific materials to meet your needs. Throughout the reupholstery process, we prioritize preserving the originality of the piece to ensure it retains its value and is ready for many more years of use.