'Mole' Brazilian Rosewood Sofa by Sergio Rodrigues for Oca Brazil, 1960s, Signed

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Description

A rare signed example of the 'Mole' sofa by Sergio Rodrigues, produced by OCA Brazil in the 1960s (see image … Read more A rare signed example of the 'Mole' sofa by Sergio Rodrigues, produced by OCA Brazil in the 1960s (see image gallery for a photo of the OCA stamp). This Mole sofa has an expansive amount of valuable solid Brazilian Jacaranda Rosewood with deep vivid grain throughout and gorgeous high-end black leather cushion accenting this marvelous piece.

For collectors and art / design investors, having the OCA stamp on the frame is extremely important and adds tremendous value.

The Sergio Rodrigues 'Mole' sofa, similar in style to the 'Sheriff' lounge chairs and sofas, stands as a landmark of mid-20th century Brazilian furniture and a defining work in the designer's celebrated career. It captures Rodrigues’ distinctive ability to fuse robust construction with organic, inviting forms—hallmarks of Brazilian modernism. True to its name—Mole, meaning "soft" in Portuguese—the sofa offers a plush, luxurious presence that invites relaxation.

This particular example, as seen in the accompanying images, features a light and beautifully aged patina that speaks to both its history and the high quality of its craftsmanship. The sofa’s low-slung silhouette emphasizes comfort, with generously tufted leather cushions on both the seat and backrest. These details lend it an air of timeless sophistication, while the buttery-soft leather promises a deeply enveloping sit. The outwardly curved, rolled arms enhance the sense of welcome and relaxation.

Rodrigues' and OCA's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the exposed wooden frame and the supportive leather straps beneath the seat. The warm and dark wood grain complements the black leather beautifully, while the visible joinery showcases the handcrafted quality of the piece. These structural elements not only provide strength and durability but also contribute to the sofa’s open, airy design.

Minimalist yet striking, the hardware—including substantial buckles and wooden pegs—adds both function and character. The sturdy, unembellished feet offer a sense of grounded stability, completing the sofa’s balanced design.

In all, the 'Mole' sofa by Sergio Rodrigues is a masterful blend of utility, elegance, and comfort. It exemplifies the warmth, craftsmanship, and modernist spirit that define Brazilian design, making it a true icon of its era.

We also have a large collection of other Brazilian Modern pieces from Sergio Rodrigues such as seating in the 'Tonico', 'Macedo, 'Cantu', 'Kilin', 'Moleca', and 'Franco' collections plus 'Clara' desks, 'Odolpho' bookcases and more, as well as designs by Jorge Zalszupin, Percival Lafer, Oscar Nieymeyer, Joaquim Tenreiro, Novo Rumo and more. If you wish to create a full living room set, we have Brazilian Modern lounge chairs and loveseats available to create a full suite.

This Sergio Rodrigues 'Mole' three-seater couch would work great in a Mid-Century Modern, Space Age Mod, Scandanavian Modern or Danish Modern home or penthouse apartment but could also look fantastic in a Post-Modern, Contemporary or Zen / Minimalism room. Also consider mixing it up in a Traditional, Transitional, Hollywood Regency, Classical or Art Deco room with a splash of juxtaposition.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER:
Sergio Rodrigues (1927-2014) was a pioneering Brazilian furniture designer and architect, renowned for integrating architecture, design, and drawing to express Brazil's cultural identity. He graduated in architecture from the National School of Architecture of the University of Brazil in 1951 and soon after founded Móveis Artesanal Paranaense in Curitiba.

Rodrigues played a crucial role during Brazil's cultural renaissance of the 1950s and 60s, addressing the need for contemporary Brazilian furniture that suited the tropical climate. His iconic Mole armchair gained international recognition, winning the prestigious Concorso Internazionale Del Mobile in 1961.

In 1958, he received a commission to design furniture for Brasília's national congress building, creating the PO-3 armchair (later named Beto) and collaborating with Oscar Niemeyer on the Itamaraty table in 1960. His designs blended local influences with global trends, exemplified by the CD-7 and PL-7 Jockey chairs.

Rodrigues founded Meia-Pataca in 1963, emphasizing accessible design. His studio, Oca, became a hub for modern furniture development in Brazil. Among his notable designs are the Tonico armchair (1963), featuring a unique roll pad for neck support, and the Lightweight Kilin PL-104 armchair (1973), known for its solid wood frame and options of canvas or leather seat and backrest.

Beyond furniture, Rodrigues pioneered the SR2 system for housing architecture and contributed to prominent projects like Brasília's Yacht Club and University of Brasília. He received accolades such as the Lapiz de Plata Prize and the São Paulo Design Award, cementing his legacy as a visionary in Brazilian design.

Throughout his five-decade career, Rodrigues consistently favored wood combined with leather, straw, and other natural fibers, reflecting his commitment to Brazilian materials and craftsmanship. His influence on modern furniture in Brazil remains profound, with Oca continuing to be celebrated for its role in the country's design evolution.

MEASUREMENTS:
H 29.5" x W 75" x D 36"
Seat Height: 15"
Seat Depth: 24"
Arm Height: 21.5"

CONDITION:
Very good condition. Rosewood frame was refinished at some point in more recent years. Leather and straps was reupholstered. Some minor wear to Rosewood. Very attractive example ready for immediate use. See less