Jean Gillon Rodeio sofa Italma Woodart Brazil 1965

Jean Gillon

Jean Gillon
Romania 1919 – Brazil 2007
Designer, artist

Typical Brazilian modern sofa model ‘Rodeio’ designed by Jean Gillon and manufactured by Italma Woodart, Brazil 1965. This sofa features a sturdy hardwood frame in a rich brown-red hue. The sofa consists of black padded leather cushions and back straps, creating an elegant contrast. In its good original condition, the leather showcases a gentle patina which gives it its character. Named “Rodeo,” the design has the imagery of a classic ranch.

The hardwood frame can be interpreted as a fence of a ranch, while the black leather upholstery resembles a finely crafted horse-saddle. The leather straps skill-fully attached to the wooden frame. The armrests, curved over the wooden armrests, further show the saddle-like appearance. A standout feature of this sofa are its uniquely angled feet, providing an intriguing and distinctive aesthetic. The overall design captures the essence of a western ranch with its subtle yet striking details.

Jean Gillon, originally from Romania and later a naturalized Brazilian, gained prominence as an architect-designer through his company Italma WoodArt. In the 1960s and 1970s, he crafted furniture collections using Brazilian hardwood. Gillon’s early years involved living in various European cities, and after studying arts in Iași, he moved to Paris, where he engaged in cartooning and set design. His architectural studies took him to Vienna and later London, where he became a visiting lecturer.

In 1956, Gillon and his wife Edith relocated to São Paulo, drawn by the vibrant Brazilian architecture scene. Initially focusing on architecture, Gillon shifted to furniture design in 1961, founding Fábrica de Móveis Cidam, later known as Italma WoodArt. By the mid-1960s, his WoodArt designs, especially lounge chairs and sofas made of hardwood and Brazilian leather, gained popularity in Brazil. In 1964, Gillon expanded globally, exporting his products to twenty-two countries. One of Gillon’s notable designs was the Jangada Chair (1968), a lounge chair and ottoman inspired by a traditional Brazilian fishing boat. Its unique design garnered global acclaim and continued to receive awards long after its production.

The leather is reconditioned with a leather care product special for vintage leather. To give the leather some strength, color, and protection again after many years of usage.