Jorge Zalszupin foldable desk table L’Atelier Brazil 1959

Jorge Zalszupin

Poland 1922 – Brazil 2020
Architect, designer

This rare folding desk, designed by Jorge Zalszupin and manufactured by his own company L’Atelier in Brazil in 1959, is a remarkable piece of mid-century Brazilian design history. As Zalszupin gained recognition during the 1950s, his innovative design approach led to collaborations with prominent figures such as architect Oscar Niemeyer, particularly in the development of the new capital, Brasília. These desks were originally part of a commissioned series for ESAF (Escola de Administração Fazendária – School of Farm Administration), an institution later merged into ENAP (National School of Public Administration) in 2019. During this transition, a selection of furniture was retained, and many of the original desks still carried their original L’Atelier manufacturer labels.

The desk features a folding structure crafted with Zalszupin’s signature rosewood patchwork veneer. This distinctive finish was developed as a way to creatively repurpose leftover wood scraps from the factory, forming a collage of varying jacaranda wood tones across the surface. The result is a warm, richly textured aesthetic that also reflects a rational and sustainable approach to material use. A black leatherette-wrapped central slat adds contrast while providing structural stability when the desk is unfolded and locked into place. When not in use, the desk can be easily folded and stored, making it as practical as it is decorative.

Interestingly, these folding desks are not documented in any of the well-known books on Jorge Zalszupin’s work, further emphasizing their rarity and unique place within his body of designs. Both available desks remain in good authentic condition and are priced individually. With their elegant design, historical significance, and functional folding mechanism, these desks are not only collector’s items but also versatile pieces suited for modern interiors. An iconic example of Brazilian design ingenuity, they represent Zalszupin’s legacy of innovation, sustainability, and aesthetic refinement.

• Good original condition
• Minor wear in relation to their age, nothing mention worthy